Maggie Collins writes: On a short walk to the Windrush Valley recently we spotted some Blue Fleabane, Erigeron acer, still in flower. There were plenty of seedheads about so it must also have been flowering at its normal time of July and August.
It has a very small flowerhead (10-18mm across) and is not easy to spot amidst the wildflowers surrounding it. The flowers look more lilac/purple than the ‘blue’ of the name.
Apparently the name ‘fleabane’ is from Old English and it refers to the plant’s odour, which supposedly can repel fleas. It’s also said to relieve toothache and arthritic pains.
I’ve only seen it a few times, once at Worsham, also in a farmer’s field. A delight.
Maggie Collins 14 October 2023
WEST OXFORDSHIRE FIELD CLUB 