Botanical Name: Ageratum houstonianum ‘Monarch Magic’

Common Name: Floss Flower

Hardiness Zone: Annual in Most Climates (USDA Zones 2–11)

Size: 18–24" Tall × 18–24" Spread

Growth Habit: Upright, Well-Branched, Bushy Habit

Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Sun

Soil: Prefers Well-Drained, Moderately Fertile Soil

Water Needs: Moderate; Consistent Moisture for Best Performance

Bloom Season: Late Spring through Frost

Fertilizer: Light, Regular Feeding During Growing Season

Features: Soft Lavender-Blue Blooms, Large Flower Heads, Excellent Monarch & Pollinator Attraction, Heat Tolerant

Uses: Ideal for Pollinator Gardens, Annual Beds, Mixed Borders, and Containers

Patent: ✔ Patented

Plant Patent: PP36,798

Propagation: ❌ Propagation Prohibited Without License

See our complete Ageratum Plant Guide for full care details.

More About Ageratum ‘Monarch Magic’

Ageratum ‘Monarch Magic’ is a standout floss flower selection bred specifically for superior pollinator attraction and garden performance. It produces large, fluffy clusters of soft lavender-blue blooms held well above the foliage, creating a bold yet airy presence in the landscape. Unlike older ageratum varieties that stayed short and were used primarily as edging plants, ‘Monarch Magic’ offers meaningful height and structure.

This variety was selected with monarch butterflies in mind, producing abundant nectar that attracts not only monarchs but also bees, skippers, and other beneficial insects. The flowers are long-lasting and continuously produced from late spring until frost, providing reliable color and pollinator support throughout the growing season.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our trials, ‘Monarch Magic’ has proven to be a strong, dependable annual with excellent heat tolerance and consistent flowering. It performs best in full sun to light shade with regular watering, maintaining a full, bushy habit without becoming leggy or collapsing mid-summer.

Pollinator activity is where this plant truly earns its name. Monarchs frequently visit the blooms, and the constant insect activity adds life and movement to garden beds. We also appreciate its versatility—it works just as well in pollinator-focused plantings as it does in mixed annual beds or larger containers where height and texture are needed.

Monarch Magic vs. Other Ageratum

Compared to compact varieties like Aloha® White and Aloha® Blue, which are bred for tidy borders and container use, Ageratum ‘Monarch Magic’ offers noticeably more height, broader spread, and a stronger presence in the landscape. While the Aloha® series excels at clean edging and uniform growth, Monarch Magic delivers larger flower heads, looser form, and significantly greater pollinator activity.

When placed alongside ‘Blue Horizon’, Monarch Magic shares similar height and impact but stands out for its especially heavy nectar production and wildlife appeal. For gardeners who want more than a neat edging plant and are looking to add structure, bold color, and meaningful pollinator value to their annual beds, Ageratum ‘Monarch Magic’ is a standout choice.