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Flax-leaved Horseweed

Erigeron bonariensis

Also listed as Conyza bonariensis, Erigeron crispus

Also known as Argentine Fleabane, Flax-leaf Fleabane, Wavy Leaved Fleabane

☀️ full sun💧 low water❄ Hardy: Zone 3a – Zone 11b

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A slender, upright annual wildflower with fine, thread-like foliage and small white or pale pink daisy-like flowers. It is drought-tolerant and thrives in disturbed sites, often appearing as a volunteer in gardens.

Why grow it

Flax-leaved horseweed establishes readily in poor, compacted, or disturbed soils where many ornamentals struggle, making it useful for interim colonization or slope stabilization. Its fine texture and airy habit offer a delicate counterpoint to heavier perennials, and it requires minimal inputs once established. Compared to other drought-tolerant annuals, it tolerates both alkaline and acidic conditions without amendment.

Watch out for

This species readily self-seeds and can become numerous if flowers are allowed to mature unchecked in garden settings. Young plants are relatively weak-rooted and benefit from consistent moisture during establishment, despite mature plants' drought tolerance. In regions with dry summers, consistent deadheading extends bloom and prevents excessive volunteer seedlings the following season.

Overview

Form
Upright
Growth Rate
fast
Size
1–3′ tall × 0.5–1.5′ wide
Dormancy
annual
Family
Asteraceae

Native Range

South America

Seasonality

Bloom Season

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Season of Interest

SummerFall

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Companion Planting

Plants well with