Erigeron speciosus Rosa Jewel

Erigeron speciosus 'Rosa Jewel', also known as E. 'Rosa Juwel', is a perennial with a very delicate colour. Its numerous semi-double flowers are pink with a yellow heart and bloom from June to August, attracting pollinators and bringing life to the garden. Perfect for romantic or wild atmospheres, it is suitable for every garden as it tolerates all types of soil, even limestone.

Belonging to the Asteraceae family and resembling asters, this erigeron is originally from California. It is a hybrid, and its herbaceous clump grows to at least 60cm (24in) tall and 50cm (20in) wide. It is therefore perfect for small gardens but also complements larger flower beds. Its deciduous foliage is a green that leans slightly towards grey. Its lanceolate leaves are rather long (around 10cm (4in)). They are numerous at the base and are arranged alternately along the stems. At the top of the stems, they bear corymbs of heads. These heads consist of ligulate or "tongue-shaped" flowers. They are very delicate in a particularly soft pink. As they bloom, they reveal the tube-shaped yellow flowers that form the heart.

Erigeron is not demanding when it comes to soil. However, it prefers moist, well-drained soil and a sunny exposure to develop quickly. It can withstand temperatures down to -15°C (5°F), tolerates limestone and poor soils, and appreciates having its stems cut back at the end of flowering to allow it to regenerate its stump. Dividing the stump will be beneficial after three years if it has grown significantly. By removing faded flowers, you will stimulate the appearance of new ones. However, at the end of the season, you can leave them and see silky fruits appear, which will fly away with the first autumn winds.

'Rosa Jewel' will be perfect in a group among a mix of grasses, accompanied by cosmos, roses such as 'Gertrude Jekyll', and Phlox 'Bill Baker'. It is indispensable in pink-inspired flower beds, as its long and early flowering will provide us with numerous bouquets and colour in the height of the season.