Flett’s Fleabane: A Rare Washington Native Worth Protecting
Meet Flett’s fleabane (Erigeron flettii), one of Washington state’s most precious floral gems. This little-known native perennial might not be the easiest plant to grow, but for dedicated native plant enthusiasts and conservation-minded gardeners, it represents something special: a chance to support a vulnerable species while adding authentic Pacific Northwest character to your landscape.
What Makes Flett’s Fleabane Special
Flett’s fleabane is a perennial forb—essentially a non-woody flowering plant that comes back year after year. Like other members of the Erigeron family, it produces charming daisy-like blooms that add delicate beauty to any garden setting. But here’s what makes this species truly unique: it’s found nowhere else in the world except Washington state.
This exclusive Washington native has earned a Global Conservation Status of S3, meaning it’s considered vulnerable. With typically only 21 to 100 known occurrences and between 3,000 to 10,000 individuals total, Flett’s fleabane is genuinely rare. That rarity makes it both precious and challenging for home gardeners.
Where You’ll Find It Growing Wild
Flett’s fleabane calls Washington state home, specifically thriving in alpine and subalpine environments. This mountain-loving plant has adapted to the challenging conditions found at higher elevations, where harsh winters and short growing seasons are the norm.
Should You Grow Flett’s Fleabane?
Here’s the honest truth: Flett’s fleabane isn’t for every gardener or every garden. If you’re looking for an easy-care native that will thrive with minimal fuss, you might want to consider other Washington natives first. However, if you’re an experienced gardener passionate about conservation and up for a challenge, this rare beauty could be perfect for you.
Consider Flett’s fleabane if you:
- Have experience growing alpine or rock garden plants
- Live in Washington state and want to support local biodiversity
- Have well-draining soil and a sunny location
- Are committed to using responsibly sourced plants
- Enjoy growing rare and unusual species
Think twice if you:
- Are new to native plant gardening
- Live outside Washington state
- Don’t have ideal growing conditions
- Prefer low-maintenance plants
Growing Conditions and Care
Based on its natural alpine habitat, Flett’s fleabane likely prefers conditions that mimic its mountain home. This means excellent drainage is absolutely critical—think rocky, gravelly soil that never stays soggy. Full sun exposure will help it thrive, just like on those exposed mountain slopes.
The plant is likely hardy in USDA zones 4-7, making it suitable for most of Washington’s climate zones. However, recreating proper alpine conditions at lower elevations can be tricky and may require specialized rock garden techniques.
A Word About Responsible Sourcing
Here’s something crucial to remember: because Flett’s fleabane is rare and vulnerable, it’s essential to source any plants responsibly. Never collect from wild populations, as this can harm already stressed populations. Instead, seek out reputable native plant nurseries that propagate their own stock or participate in conservation programs.
Many gardeners may find it difficult to locate Flett’s fleabane for purchase, and that’s actually okay. Sometimes the best way to support a rare species is to grow other native plants that provide similar ecological benefits while being more readily available and easier to establish.
Supporting Pollinators and Wildlife
While specific wildlife benefits of Flett’s fleabane aren’t well-documented, Erigeron species are generally valuable to small pollinators, including native bees and butterflies. The daisy-like flowers provide accessible nectar and pollen sources during their blooming period.
Garden Design Ideas
If you do decide to try growing Flett’s fleabane, it’s best suited for specialized garden settings:
- Rock gardens with excellent drainage
- Alpine garden collections
- Native plant demonstration gardens
- Conservation-focused landscapes
The Bottom Line
Flett’s fleabane represents both an opportunity and a responsibility. For Washington gardeners with the right conditions and commitment, growing this rare native can be a meaningful way to participate in plant conservation. However, it’s not a beginner plant, and that’s perfectly fine.
Whether you choose to grow Flett’s fleabane or not, simply learning about and appreciating Washington’s rare native plants helps build awareness for conservation efforts. Sometimes the most important thing we can do for a vulnerable species is to ensure its wild habitat remains protected for future generations to discover and admire.
