blue fleabane
Erigeron acer
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erigeron_acris
Overview
Erigeron acris is a widespread species of herbaceous flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. Common names include bitter fleabane and blue fleabane. The species is native to Canada, colder parts of the United States, northern, central, and southeastern Asia, and most of Europe.
Blue fleabane faces significant pressure from habitat loss due to agricultural intensification and urban development across its native range. The species' specialized requirements for calcareous grasslands and open habitats make it particularly vulnerable to land use changes and the abandonment of traditional grazing practices that historically maintained suitable conditions.
Habitat
Blue fleabane typically occurs in dry, calcareous grasslands, chalk downs, limestone pavements, and rocky slopes, often in areas with thin soils and low nutrient availability. The species also colonizes disturbed ground, quarries, and roadside verges where similar open, well-drained conditions exist.
Other threatened species in Asteraceae
Frequently asked questions
Why is blue fleabane classified as Vulnerable?
Where does blue fleabane live?
What are the main threats to blue fleabane?
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