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Flossflower
Also known as: Mexican paintbrush, Blueweed
Flossflower (Ageratum houstonianum) is a low-growing annual that attracts butterflies bees and birds. Fragrant aster-like flowers blooming from spring to fall are usually vibrant blue but can also be white or pink. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade is resistant to deer and rabbits and makes a colorful addition to any garden. 15 to 30 cm in height.
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Toxic to Humans
Toxicity
Annual, Perennial
Lifespan
Herb
Plant Type
Late spring, Summer, Fall
Bloom Time
Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
Harvest Time
30 cm to 1 m
Plant Height
30 cm to 45 cm
Spread
Green
Leaf Color
2 cm to 4 cm
Flower Size
Brown
Fruit Color
Pink, White, Blue, Violet
Flower Color
Green, Red, Burgundy
Stem Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
Deciduous
Leaf type
20 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Summer, Fall
Growth Season
Moderate
Growth Rate

Images of Flossflower

Distribution of Flossflower

Distribution Map
Although its native region is central America, the flossflower has been distributed across the world to regions such as Africa, Eurasia, and the Middle East. It grows alongside disturbed soils and in moist areas such as wetlands and waterways. The flossflower has been cultivated for ornamental uses and to conserve soil.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Pine woods, cultivated ground
Hemisphere Trend Curve
Flowering
Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use
Flossflower is a popular annual prized for its profusion of flowers and long blooming period. It is commonly used as an edger and is essential in spring and summer flower gardens or rock gardens. Often, it is planted with petunias, Artemesia, coneflowers, and marigolds for contrasting heights and colors.
Symbolism
Politeness
Name Story
Bluemink: The plant sprouts blue flowerheads that are borne in dense corymbs. The ray flowers are threadlike and fluff-haired and its rich blue color reminds people of mink. Therefore it is called bluemink.
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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Flossflower, including the following common varieties :

Toxicity

Flossflower is toxic to cats and dogs. Ingestion of any part of flossflower necessitates immediate veterinary attention to address serious symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Preventing access to flossflower is crucial for pet health.
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Quickly Identify Flossflower

1
Fluffy, aster-like blue flowers in pom-pom clusters.
2
Distinctive black cypselas with 5-angled shapes.
3
Alternate, ovate leaves with pilose surfaces and heart-shaped bases.
4
Semidecumbent stems with white tomentose or lanate hairs.
5
Bushy annual with mounding habit, reaching 6-12 inches in height.
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Care Guide for Flossflower

Every week
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
20 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Garden Soil
Soil Type
Water: Native to tropical regions, flossflower thrives in consistently moist environments. It prefers regular watering, ideally weekly, to mimic natural rainfall. As an outdoor ornamental, flossflower flourishes during the growing season with ample rain, promoting vibrant flowers and strong growth.
Fertilize: For optimal growth, flossflower benefits from high-phosphorus fertilization every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent leaf burn and reduce feeding frequency in winter. Seasonal adjustments ensure flossflower thrives with vibrant flowers and robust health.
Pruning: To maintain flossflower's vibrant flowers, prune from early to late spring by trimming leggy growth and spent blooms. Regular deadheading promotes bushiness and continuous flowering. Pruning also improves air circulation, reducing disease risk and enhancing appearance, ensuring flossflower shines in any garden.
Propagation: Flossflower is propagated primarily by sowing in Spring. While it's not particularly challenging, patience is essential. Healthy seedlings indicate successful propagation, and moisture control is crucial during germination.
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