Aster tataricus
| Tatarian Aster | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Binomial: | Aster tataricus |
| Type: | Perennial |
| Light requirements: | Full sun |
| Water requirements: | Drought tolerant |
| Soil requirements: | Well-drained |
| USDA Hardiness Zone: | 3-8 |
| Bloom season: | Late autumn |
| Fruit season: | Winter |
| Weediness: | Aggressive spreader |
| Pollination: | Insects |
Tatarian Aster is a tall, upright perennial native to Asia but grown elsewhere in gardens.
Description
editThe plant overall is coarse, with large leaves and thick stems. The flowers are borne in late autumn, with yellow disk florets and purple ray florets.
The species can grow up to 2.5 m (8 ft) tall, but shorter cultivars are available.
Growing conditions
editDoes best in full sun. Plants tend to flop if grown in very rich soils. Hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Uses
editGenerally grown as a "back of the border" plant, for its tall flowers in the fall. Excellent as a cut flower.
Maintenance
editCut back half-way in mid summer to encourage bushiness. The plant spreads aggressively, so will need to be reined in by digging out the outer crowns or dividing every two or three years.
The plant does not readily self-seed.
Propagation
editEasily divided.
Pests and diseases
edit
Pest and disease issues are not common, though deer browsing can be a problem if deer populations are high. See Aster for discussion of pest and disease issues.
References
edit- Christopher Brickell and Judith D. Zuk (1997). The American Horticultural Society A-Z Encyclopedia of Garden Plants. DK Publishing. p. 150.