Shaggy Fleabane (Erigeron pumilus) is a hardy, drought-tolerant perennial wildflower native to the western United States. Found in dry meadows, sagebrush steppe, and open foothill habitats, this compact plant is distinguished by its woolly, gray-green leaves and its cheerful, daisy-like flowers with pale lavender to white rays surrounding a yellow center. Its low, clumping form and soft texture make it a resilient and attractive species for native landscaping and dryland restoration projects.
 
Shaggy Fleabane supports a wide range of pollinators, including native solitary bees, small butterflies, and syrphid flies. Its early-to-mid-season blooms offer essential nectar and pollen resources in arid and semi-arid ecosystems, helping to sustain insect populations between the flushes of spring and summer wildflowers. The dense basal foliage also provides ground cover for insects and can help reduce soil erosion in dry, open areas.
 
Shaggy Fleabane thrives in full sun and is adapted to well-drained soils—especially sandy, rocky, or gravelly substrates. It is easy to grow from seed, and while cold stratification may improve germination rates, it is not strictly necessary. Fall sowing or early spring seeding is recommended. Once established, this fleabane is low-maintenance and highly tolerant of drought, making it a reliable choice for water-wise gardens, prairie restoration, and pollinator-friendly dryland plantings.