Description

Ageratum – Floss Flower

There are about 40 species of annuals and perennials, that are usually cultivated as annuals, in this genus.  Native to warm-temperature tropic areas in North and South America.  Ageratum may be erect, spreading or mound forming up to 30” tall.  They have felted oval to heart shape mid green leaves.  In summer and autumn panicles of 30-50 small flower heads from soft round brush like clusters varying form blue or gray blue to pink or white. Their very attractive to butterflies. Grow in fertile, moist but well drained soil in full sun or partial shade.  Regular dead heading is essential to prolong flower. Prone to southern blight, crown rots, root rots, Botrytis blight, powdery mildew and rust. Ageratum houstonianum – This popular annual is native to Central America and the West Indies.  Usually a great summer bedding in variable sizes, large 12”, medium 8”, and dwarf 6” tall.  Usually growing 6-12” wide.  All, form clumps of foliage with fluffy flowers of blue, pink and white. Blooms mid summer to first frost. ‘Pacific’ – Grows 8” tall in a neat tight cluster of deep violet-blue flowers Zones 10-13