Erigeron speciosus Azure Beauty

Erigeron speciosus 'Azure Beauty' is a small, compact, and bushy perennial that flowers from June to August. It is suitable for bordering flower beds, and its semi-double lavender-blue flowers reveal a small yellow heart that attracts pollinators. Requiring little maintenance, it can thrive in various soils as long as they do not dry out too much.

Belonging to the Asteraceae family and resembling Asters, this Erigeron is originally from California. Resulting from hybridisation, its herbaceous clump does not grow excessively and maintains a height of around 50 cm (20in) with a spread of 30 cm (12in). Therefore, it is the ideal companion for small gardens and complements larger flower beds. Its deciduous foliage is a vibrant green. The lanceolate leaves are rather long, around 10 cm (4in), numerous at the base, and arranged alternately along the stems. At the top of the stems, there are corymbs of heads. The heads consist of ligulate or 'tongue-shaped' flowers in lavender-blue. As they bloom, these flowers reveal the yellow tubular flowers that make up the centre.

Erigeron is undemanding in terms of soil. However, it prefers moist, well-drained soil and a sunny exposure to grow rapidly. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -15°C (5°F) and appreciates having its stems cut back at the end of flowering to allow it to regenerate its stump. If you also remove faded flowers, the next ones will renew more spontaneously. Dividing the stump will be beneficial after three years if it has become extensive.

With its essential blue hue in the summer colour palette, 'Azure Beauty' will blend in with all other shades to brighten up the season for a long time: from yellow Heleniums to red Benoites. You can also plant it around a group of Asters and tall grasses, thus enhancing a wild and romantic ambiance that you can bring into your home by creating small bouquets.