Erigeron karvinskianus

Erigeron karvinskianus, commonly known as Mexican fleabane or Santa Barbara daisy, is a charming, long-flowering perennial with a spreading, semi-trailing growth habit. It typically reaches 20 to 40 cm in height and forms a delicate carpet of fine stems and narrow, lance-shaped green leaves. From May through October, it produces an abundance of small, daisy-like flowers that emerge white and gradually turn pink and pale purple as they mature.

This plant thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained, dry to moderately moist soils. It is ideal for rock gardens, walls, pots, and as a filler between paving stones. Erigeron karvinskianus self-seeds easily, making it a great choice for informal or naturalistic planting styles.

Maintenance is low: prune in late autumn or early spring to maintain a compact shape. In mild climates, the plant may remain semi-evergreen. While not fully hardy in colder regions, it often regenerates from seeds.

Ecologically, it provides valuable nectar to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators throughout the growing season thanks to its extended flowering period.