Fragrant Mistflower

Ageratina havanensis

Also known as Shrubby Boneset, White Mistflower, White Shrub Mistflower, Havana Snakeroot, and eupatorium havanense.

The fragrant mistflower is a charming open shrub with slender branches that can reach heights up to six feet. In the fall, it delights us with clusters of fluffy, white, fragrant flowers, drawing in hummingbirds, butterflies, and various insects. You can find it cozying up in the limestone hills and rocky ravines across the Edwards Plateau, Trans-Pecos, and even in parts of Mexico. Its lovely light green, triangular leaves are 1 to 3 inches long, featuring wavy edges that add to its appeal. Like E. wrightii, this beautiful plant is quite resilient, thriving even in dry conditions and managing well in slightly damp areas.

The fragrant mistflower loves to bask in both partially shaded and sunny spots but puts on its best show in full sun. It can be a stunning addition to your garden in the fall, or you can mass it as an understory or edge plant for a more natural look. Giving it a good prune in the winter encourages a fuller shape and even more blooms the following year since its long-lasting flowers burst forth on new growth.