Greggs Mistflower Plant Sets

Transform your garden into a bustling pollinator sanctuary with Gregg’s Mistflower (Conoclinium greggii), also known as Palm-leaf Mistflower or Texas Ageratum. This hardy, herbaceous perennial is famous for its "misty" appearance, produced by clusters of fluffy, powder-blue to deep lavender flowers with long, threadlike stigmas. Growing 1 to 2 feet tall, it spreads easily via rhizomes to create a lush, textured groundcover that blooms profusely from mid-summer through fall. Native to the stream beds and plains of the Southwest, this resilient plant is a favorite among gardeners for its long bloom period and its legendary ability to attract clouds of butterflies—particularly Queen and Monarch butterflies—during their fall migrations. Key Features: Butterfly Magnet: Renowned for attracting impressive numbers of butterflies, especially Queens and Monarchs, with its nectar-rich, cushion-like flower heads. Larval Host: Serves as a critical host plant for the Rawson’s Metalmark butterfly. Versatile Groundcover: Spreads quickly by roots and rhizomes to fill in mixed borders, rock gardens, or mass plantings on slopes. Distinctive Foliage: Features light green, palmate leaves that are deeply divided into three lobes, providing a unique, delicate texture even when not in bloom. Drought-Tolerant & Low Maintenance: Once established, it is a rugged survivor that handles dry conditions and various soil types with ease. Wildlife Support: In addition to pollinators, this plant provides valuable browse for deer. Pollinator-Safe: Grown non-GMO and free of harmful neonicotinoids, promoting a healthy ecosystem for pollinators and wildlife. Available in sets of three, six, or 12 plants to create a vibrant, pollinator-rich landscape. Why Choose Gregg’s Mistflower? Gregg’s Mistflower is a "must-have" for any pocket prairie or wildflower garden. Named in honor of the 19th-century explorer Josiah Gregg, it carries a rich botanical heritage of the American Southwest. Its ability to sprawl and naturalize makes it an excellent choice for stabilizing soil or creating a soft, colorful carpet in sunny areas. While it is a vigorous grower, it is easy to divide and move, allowing you to share its beauty across your landscape. Planting Tips: Location: Best in full sun for maximum blooming, but it will tolerate partial shade. Highly adaptable to sand, loam, clay, or limestone, but good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. Watering: Prefers medium moisture and can tolerate seasonally wet areas like stream beds; however, avoid overwatering in heavy soils. Maintenance: Cut back after a hard freeze to prevent the plant from becoming leggy in the spring. Container Gardening: Plant in a pot at least 12–14 inches in diameter to accommodate its spread. A 1- to 2-gallon pot is suitable, as this hardy, herbaceous perennial grows 12–24 inches wide and 12–18 inches tall. For more information on planting, view our How to Plant Your Native Plants guide and other planting tips in the Garden for Wildlife Learning Center.