Lake Powell Fleabane: A Rare Desert Gem You Probably Shouldn’t Grow
Meet Lake Powell fleabane (Erigeron zothecinus), one of Utah’s most elusive native wildflowers. This little-known perennial forb might not be heading to your garden center anytime soon—and that’s actually a good thing for conservation.
What Makes Lake Powell Fleabane Special
Lake Powell fleabane is a native perennial forb, meaning it’s an herbaceous flowering plant that lacks woody stems and returns year after year from its root system. As part of the diverse Erigeron genus (commonly known as fleabanes), this species likely produces the characteristic daisy-like flowers that make its relatives so charming.
A Utah Exclusive
This rare beauty calls only Utah home, making it a true state endemic. Its common name hints at its connection to the Lake Powell region, where it has adapted to the unique desert conditions of southern Utah.
Why You Should Think Twice About Growing It
Here’s where things get serious: Lake Powell fleabane carries a Global Conservation Status of S1, which means it’s critically imperiled. This classification indicates that there are typically five or fewer known populations, with very few remaining individuals (usually fewer than 1,000 plants total). In conservation terms, this plant is hanging on by a thread.
What does this mean for gardeners? This isn’t a plant you should casually add to your shopping list. Its extreme rarity makes every individual plant precious for the species’ survival in the wild.
The Responsible Approach
If you’re absolutely committed to growing Lake Powell fleabane, here are the essential guidelines:
- Source responsibly: Only obtain plants or seeds from reputable conservation organizations or botanical institutions
- Never collect from the wild: This could push local populations closer to extinction
- Consider participating in conservation efforts: Contact Utah native plant societies or botanical gardens about conservation programs
- Support habitat protection: The best way to help this species is to protect its remaining natural habitat
Better Alternatives for Your Garden
Instead of risking harm to this rare species, consider these more common Utah native Erigeron species that can provide similar ecological benefits:
- Spreading fleabane (Erigeron divergens): A more widespread native with similar daisy-like flowers
- Showy fleabane (Erigeron speciosus): Larger flowers and easier to grow
- Trail fleabane (Erigeron flagellaris): Great groundcover option
Supporting Conservation
The story of Lake Powell fleabane reminds us that not every native plant is appropriate for home cultivation. Sometimes the best way to support a species is to leave it in peace and protect its natural habitat. Consider supporting Utah’s native plant conservation efforts, visiting botanical gardens that may have conservation collections, and choosing more common native alternatives for your landscape.
While we may not be able to enjoy Lake Powell fleabane in our gardens, we can appreciate its role as a unique piece of Utah’s natural heritage—and work to ensure it remains part of that heritage for generations to come.
