Monarch Magic ageratum is a
new plant
for spring 2025 that will be available at garden centers this year. The flowers are a
true periwinkle blue
, with a light, sweet scent. Here’s what you need to know about this pretty pollinator favorite.
Does Monarch Magic Ageratum Attract Butterflies?
Yes, butterflies (
monarchs
especially), moths and bees are attracted to ageratum flowers. The colorful bloom clusters allow for an ample landing platform for
butterflies feeding on the flower nectar
.
“I am unable to describe what I’d refer to as an extraordinary event in my garden last year, where almost daily I observed over 20 monarch butterflies present at once! I had grown Monarch Magic both in my garden and on my patios. Witnessing the lively commotion each day was truly remarkable and enchanting,” shares Tanya Carvalho, who serves as the territory manager for Canada at Ball FloraPlant.
Check out more
monarch butterfly flowers
you should grow.
Ageratum Maintenance and Cultivation Advice
- Common name: Flossflower
-
Botanical name:
Ageratum houstonianum - Growing zones: Annual
- Watering needs: Moderate
- Sunlight Exposure: Full sun up to partial shade
- Soil: Well-draining
- Height: 6 to 12 inches, Width: 12 to 16 inches
Offer moderate watering but avoid complete drying out,” explains Tanya. “Pour water directly onto the soil near the plant’s base rather than on the flowers themselves, and apply fertilizer every two weeks during the growing period to boost exceptional bloom development.
Check out more
monarch butterfly flowers
you should grow.
Where to Sow Monarch Magic Seeds
Monarch Magic thrives best in a site that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day, though it can still flower even with just a half-day of sunshine. Additionally, these plants are non-invasive and won’t turn into weeds or spread through self-seeding.
The mature plant reaches heights between 6 to 12 inches and can extend 8 to 16 inches,” explains Tanya. “When placed in an open area within the landscaping, it may grow outward up to a 24-inch diameter with a height ranging from 12 to 16 inches. This species exhibits neater growth patterns when utilized in combined container gardens for patios.
hanging baskets
.”
Monarch Magic blends wonderfully with other sun-loving plants thanks to its strong stems, which help elevate it over surrounding foliage. Tanya mentions this.
lantana
, petunias,
calibrachoa
And Angelonia complements ageratum very well when planted together.
“I combined Bee’s Knees petunias and Shamrock Rose lantanas with Monarch Magic at my place last spring, and it looked amazing,” she states.
Alternative Ageratum Species for Cultivation
In addition to Monarch Magic, look for these other varieties of ageratum at the nursery:
- Swing Pink
- Summer Snow
- Blue Horizon
- Hawaii White
- Aloha Blue
- Aguilera Purple
- Aguilera Violet
Diseases and Pests
Monarch Magic ageratum is an excellent choice for those looking to keep deer and rabbits at bay,” explains Tanya. “This plant doesn’t have many disease issues, though it may develop powdery mildew if placed too near other plants (it needs space to thrive). It could be affected by leaf spots or root rot if grown in complete shade or if the soil remains overly moist.
The pests you should keep an eye out for include mites, whiteflies, thrips, and aphids.
Is It Harmful for People orPets If They Come Into Contact With Ageratum Plants?
Ingesting ageratum may prove poisonous for humans, dogs, or cats. “Should you own a pet prone to grazing in the garden, it’s advisable to place this plant where they cannot access it,” advises Tanya.
About the Expert
Tanya Carvalho
works as a regional territory manager in Canada for Ball FloraPlant and SelectaOne. She previously worked for Bradford Greenhouses Limited in Ontario.
Sources
-
Ballseed.com –
Monarch Magic ageratum
RELATED:
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Grow Native Butterfly Weed for Monarchs
-
What (and How) Do Monarch Butterflies Eat?
-
5 Easy Ways to Attract and Help Butterflies
