Flossflower (Ageratum houstonianum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Flossflower on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Asteraceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 0–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Flossflower
Ageratum houstonianum, commonly known as flossflower or ageratum, is an annual plant from the Asteraceae family, valued for its soft, fluffy flowers that resemble small pom-poms. Its inflorescences, typically lavender-blue but also available in white and pink varieties, form dense, long-blooming clumps. It is ideal for borders, flower beds, or as a filler plant in containers and hanging baskets, providing a delicate and continuous splash of color.
Native range
Mexico and Central America
Care tips
Ageratum houstonianum thrives in full sun to light partial shade, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal blooming. It needs regular watering, keeping the soil consistently moist but well-drained, avoiding waterlogging which can lead to root rot. Use a general-purpose potting mix rich in organic matter and with good drainage. A common mistake is neglecting to deadhead spent flowers, which encourages more abundant and prolonged blooming.
How to save a dying Flossflower
- Warning signs
- Wilted, yellowing, or spotted leaves, lack of flowering.
- First aid
- Check soil moisture. If dry, water deeply. If waterlogged, aerate roots and reduce watering.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (root rot) or prolonged drought. Insufficient light stunts growth.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted. Act quickly and adjust watering and light.