Ageratum houstonianum
annual

Floss Flower Ageratum

Ageratum houstonianum

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Annual

Height

12 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Tender perennial, grown as an annual

Native To

Mexico and Central America

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Ageratum houstonianum, commonly known as floss flower, is a tender perennial but often grown as an annual. This plant produces soft, fluffy flowers that are available in shades of blue, lavender, and white.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAgeratum adds vibrant color to garden borders with its fluffy, colorful blooms. It attracts pollinators like butterflies and bees, enhancing garden ecology.
Practical UsesIts low-maintenance nature makes it ideal for busy gardeners seeking reliable color without intensive care.
Ecological BenefitsProvides nectar for beneficial insects, supporting local pollinator populations.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds just below soil surface in early spring.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
  3. Transplant seedlings after last frost when they are sturdy.
  4. Space plants 12 inches apart for optimal growth.
  5. Water consistently, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged.
  6. Deadhead faded flowers to encourage more blooms.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly to keep soil moist ๐ŸŒฑ
  • Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming
  • Provide full sun for best flowering

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot โŒ
  • Do not plant in heavy, poorly-drained soil
  • Avoid excessive fertilizing late in the season

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Bright, cheerful border plantsWildflower meadow accentsContainer garden centerpiece

Companion Plants

Marigolds Petunias Sweet Alyssum Lobelia Salvia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Floss Flower Ageratum questions

What zones can Floss Flower Ageratum grow in?

Floss Flower Ageratum is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Floss Flower Ageratum deer resistant?

Yes โ€” Floss Flower Ageratum is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Floss Flower Ageratum bloom?

Floss Flower Ageratum typically blooms in summer to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone โ€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Floss Flower Ageratum need full sun?

Floss Flower Ageratum does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Explore the genus

Hardy in your zone?

Grow Floss Flower Ageratum with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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