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Blackhead Fleabane

Erigeron melanocephalus

Last reviewed: August 2026

Blackhead Fleabane (Erigeron melanocephalus)
Photo: no rights reserved, uploaded by Cecelia Alexander

Toxicity unknown

Blackhead Fleabane (Erigeron melanocephalus) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

6"–18" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

CO, NM, UT, WY

Pollinators

bees, butterflies

Before you buy

Your city may pay you to plant this

Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 445 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.

Find rebates in your area

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Black-headed daisy is a compact native wildflower with cheerful white petals and dark centers. This drought-tolerant perennial blooms throughout summer and forms neat, low clumps that work well in rock gardens and xeriscapes.

In an HOA neighborhood

Blackhead Fleabane is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.

Works well in: foundation, mid zone.

  • Small stature may appear sparse in large front yard areas
  • Native wildflower appearance might seem informal to some HOAs

Wildlife value

The daisy-like flowers attract native bees and butterflies during the long summer blooming period. This native plant provides important nectar resources for pollinators in dry mountain environments.

Common questions

How much sun does Blackhead Fleabane need?
Blackhead Fleabane grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Blackhead Fleabane bloom?
Blackhead Fleabane blooms in June, July, and August.
Where is Blackhead Fleabane native?
Blackhead Fleabane (Erigeron melanocephalus) is native to CO, NM, UT, WY, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
What pollinators does Blackhead Fleabane attract?
Blackhead Fleabane draws bees and butterflies.
Is Blackhead Fleabane HOA-friendly?
Blackhead Fleabane is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Blackhead Fleabane? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz