Showy Fleabane, or Aster Fleabane (Erigeron speciosus), is a perennial aster native to regions spanning from western Canada and Alaska, down to California and into parts of Mexico. It can be found in diverse habitats, including meadows, prairies, open woodlands, and along the edges of forests. Showy Fleabane produces numerous daisy-like flowers with lavender to violet petals and bright yellow centers that have a delightful chamomile-like fragrance.
 
Showy Fleabane typically blooms from late spring through summer, with its peak bloom period occurring from June to August. A valuable native plant for supporting pollinators and other beneficial insects, Showy Fleabane serves as a host plant for both the Northern Checkerspot butterfly (Chlosyne palla) and Little Dark Gem moth (Schinia villosa) bees are particularly attracted to the abundant pollen offered by the flowers. Birds, such as finches, may feed on the late season seed heads. It also has a long history of traditional medicinal use in Native cultures. The leaves were brewed to make a tea used for various purposes, including the treatment of respiratory ailments and as a general tonic.
 
Showy Fleabane grows well in a range of soil types, but it prefers well-drained soils with moderate fertility, and should be given full fun. It can tolerate varying moisture levels, from dry to moderately moist conditions. When it comes to germination, Showy Fleabane seeds are not dormant and can be surface sown onto prepared soil from early spring through fall, and lightly pressed or watered in.