Streamside fleabane (Erigeron glabellus, Gen. N. Amer. Pl. 2: 147 (1818))

Family: Asteraceae

Author: Nutt.

Bibliography: Gen. N. Amer. Pl. 2: 147 (1818)

Year: 1818

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Erigeron

Vegetable: False

Observations: WC. & C. Canada to WC. U.S.A.

Description

Streamside fleabane, scientifically known as Erigeron glabellus, is a captivating member of the Asteraceae family. This perennial herb is admired not only for its delicate beauty but also for its resilience in thriving across a diverse range of environments. It was first described in 1818, an attribution to its early chronicling by renowned botanist Nuttall in his seminal work on North American plants.

The distribution of streamside fleabane spans from the western and central regions of Canada to the western United States, showcasing its adaptability to various climates and soils. Commonly found along streamsides, this plant prospers in moist, well-drained soils, often gracing the edges of waterways with its presence.

Characterized by its glabrous (smooth) stems, Erigeron glabellus produces a profusion of charming flowers that bloom in the summer. Each flower head features a central disc of yellow florets surrounded by an array of slender, lavender or pale blue ray florets, creating a striking and colorful display that attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

In addition to its ornamental appeal, streamside fleabane holds ecological significance. It contributes to the stabilization of stream banks and the prevention of soil erosion, which is vital for maintaining the health and stability of riparian ecosystems. Its presence supports a diverse array of wildlife, providing food resources and habitat structures that are essential for many species.

Streamside fleabane, with its blend of aesthetic charm and environmental importance, is a valuable asset to natural landscapes. Through conservation efforts and habitat protection, it continues to thrive and embellish the riparian zones of North America.

Common Names

Eng: streamside fleabane, smooth fleabane
Swe: vallbinka
Fra: vergerette glabre
En: Streamside fleabane, SMOOTH FLEABANE
Fr: Vergerette glabre
Sv: Vallbinka

Synonyms

• Fragmosa glabella ((Nutt.) Raf.)
• Tessenia glabella ((Nutt.) Lunell)

Distribution

• Alaska (native)
• Alberta (native)
• British Columbia (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Manitoba (native)
• Minnesota (native)
• Montana (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• North Dakota (native)
• Northwest Territorie (native)
• Ontario (native)
• Saskatchewan (native)
• South Dakota (native)
• Utah (native)
• Wisconsin (native)
• Wyoming (native)
• Yukon (native)
• Sweden (introduced)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Aug 11, 2019 by C C (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 25, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 23, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 21, 2022 by Hayley Van Tassell (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 28, 2008 by Andrzej Konstantynowicz (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jun 25, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 23, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 23, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 18, 2017 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 25, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jun 12, 2020 by Permiculteur (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 18, 2017 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 23, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 23, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 25, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Jul 9, 2022 by Stephanie M (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 12, 2020 by Permiculteur (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:203893-1)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3147000)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Erigeron glabellus Nutt.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth