Aster
Aster spp.
Full Sun
Easy care
Moderate watering
Tender
H7-H2
RHS hardiness
-20°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
1m | Max | 1m |
10cm | Min | 10cm |
2 years to reach maturity
Flowering
spring
summer
autumn
winter
This plant has a mild fragrance
More images of Aster
Aster Overview
Aster is a large genus of around 150 annual, biennial and perennial sub-shrubs, mostly originating from different parts of South Africa. They reside in the daisy family, Asteraceae. (Some plants still commonly called Asters, have now been re-classified as belonging to the genus Symphyotrichum.) Widely cultivated for their pretty star-shaped flowers which appear in summer or autumn, hybrid Aster varieties have been produced in a range of colours - mainly blue, purple, pink or white. In the centre of most, there is a yellow disc of tiny florets. While there are Asters for just about every garden situation - from rock gardens to cut flower borders and from dry wildflower meadows to streamsides - different species have different requirements, so make sure you know how to treat them well before you buy! Regular watering of young plants, a moderately fertile soil and deadheading are common needs of most.
Common problems with Aster
How to harvest Aster
Generally not harvested, however stems can be cut for floral arrangements as required.
How to propagate Aster
Seed
Division
Divide clumps in autumn or spring, discard the older middle section and replant the younger outside parts of the clump immediately.
Special features of Aster
Attractive flowers
Attracts useful insects
Attracts butterflies
Attracts birds
Attracts bees
Autumn colour
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Traditionally flowering in October, these flowers will be at their best this month.
