Dieter’s Erigeron: A Rare Colorado Native Worth Protecting
Meet Dieter’s erigeron (Erigeron wilkenii), one of Colorado’s most elusive wildflowers. This little-known perennial belongs to the vast daisy family, but don’t expect to find it at your local garden center – this native beauty is as rare as they come.
A Plant on the Edge
Before we dive into growing tips, there’s something crucial you need to know about Dieter’s erigeron: it’s critically imperiled. With a Global Conservation Status of S1, this species is hanging on by a thread. We’re talking about five or fewer known locations and less than 1,000 individual plants remaining in the wild. That’s pretty sobering stuff for a plant lover.
Where in the World?
Erigeron wilkenii calls Colorado home – and only Colorado. This endemic species has one of the most restricted ranges you’ll find among North American wildflowers. Its entire existence is tied to very specific conditions found only in the Centennial State.
What Makes It Special
As a perennial forb, Dieter’s erigeron lacks woody stems and dies back to ground level each winter, returning from its roots the following spring. Like other members of the Erigeron genus, it likely produces daisy-like flowers, though detailed descriptions of this particular species are scarce in the literature – another testament to its rarity.
Should You Grow It?
Here’s where things get complicated. While supporting native plants is always admirable, Dieter’s erigeron presents unique challenges:
- Extreme rarity: With so few plants left in the wild, every individual matters
- Unknown growing requirements: We simply don’t know enough about its specific needs
- Questionable availability: Legitimate sources would be nearly impossible to find
- Conservation concerns: Removing any genetic material from wild populations could be harmful
The Responsible Approach
If you’re passionate about supporting Colorado’s native flora, consider these alternatives:
- Choose related species: Other Erigeron species like fleabane daisy offer similar ecological benefits without the conservation concerns
- Support conservation efforts: Donate to organizations working to protect rare plant habitats
- Volunteer: Join botanical surveys or habitat restoration projects
- Spread awareness: Share information about Colorado’s rare plants with fellow gardeners
A Plant Worth Protecting
Dieter’s erigeron serves as a reminder of how much we still don’t know about our native flora. While we can’t offer specific growing advice for this mysterious species, we can appreciate its significance as part of Colorado’s unique botanical heritage.
Every rare plant tells a story about the landscapes we’ve lost and the ecosystems that still need our protection. Sometimes the best thing we can do for a plant isn’t to grow it in our gardens, but to ensure it has a safe place to thrive in the wild.
The Bottom Line
Dieter’s erigeron isn’t a plant for the home garden – at least not yet. Until we know more about its biology and until its wild populations are secure, this rare Colorado endemic is best admired from afar and protected in its natural habitat. Instead, channel your enthusiasm for native plants toward more common species that can bring the same ecological benefits to your landscape without the conservation concerns.
