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Physical description: This herbaceous perennial is a low growing, trailing
plant that may reach a height of 6 to 12 in. tall and spread
20 in. wide. The leaves are evergreen, elliptical to oval, pubescent
on both sides, and reach 1 ¼ in. long by ½ in.
wide. Flowering begins in spring, and continues until the end
of the growing season. The flowers have a yellow center, a corolla
that is 5-lobed with white petals, which become pink and finally
purple with age. This difference of colors between flowers of
different ages gives a beautiful effect. The fruit is a non-ornamental
achene.
Optimal growing conditions: Latin American fleabane prefers full sun or partial
shade. The plant is able to tolerate high salinity and drought
(but the growth is best with some water), and so is especially
useful in the southwest. Therefore, a wide range of soils qualities
is acceptable. The only major requirement is well-drained soil.
Hardiness: Zones 5 to 7. The rate of growth is fast when the
plant is well established.
Susceptibility to pests and diseases: Aphids are the principal pests of Latin American
fleabane, but are rarely a serious problem.
Use:
Latin American fleabane can be used as a moderate-scale cover
in a wide range of places (ground cover, borders, rock gardens…),
especially around and underneath large shrubs and small trees.
With small shrubs, the fast rate of growth of Latin American
fleabane may allow it to overrun the shrubs.
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