Overview
Aster commutatus (Torr. & Gray) Gray var. crassulus (Rydb.) Blake, commonly known as the thickstem aster or wandering aster, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America, specifically found in the western United States.
General Appearance
The thickstem aster typically grows to a height of 1-3 feet, and its size varies depending on environmental factors. Its stems are thick, rigid, and branched, with a reddish-brown color. The leaves are smooth, oblong or lance-shaped, and green in color. The flowers of the plant are composed of many small, violet ray florets and yellow disc florets, forming a flat-topped cluster at the end of each stem.
Common Names
In addition to thickstem aster and wandering aster, this plant also goes by several other common names, including common purple aster, one-sided purple aster, and Willow Creek aster.
Uses
The thickstem aster and other members of the Asteraceae family have been used for a variety of medicinal purposes by indigenous tribes, including the treatment of asthma, colds, coughs, and rheumatism. The plant is also a source of nectar for several insects and is therefore considered an important food source for bees and butterflies. In the garden, it is a great choice for bringing in pollinators and adds a beautiful pop of color to any landscape with its violet flowers.
Light Requirements
Aster commutatus var. crassulus prefers to grow in a place where there is moderate or partial sun but can also thrive in full sun.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate cold temperatures, making it suitable for USDA hardiness zones 4-8. In the heat of summer, the plant will necessitate some shade to keep it from wilting.
Soil Requirements
The plant thrives in moist soil, making it ideal to plant in low-lying areas such as swamps, streams, and riverbanks. It also grows well in a soil mixture with a pH ranging from neutral to slightly acidic.
Water Requirements
The plant adapts to various conditions but prefers well-drained soil to prevent root rot. After planting, it's essential to water the plant adequately to keep the soil moist.
Fertilizer Requirements
Aster commutatus var. crassulus can grow in nutrient-poor soil, but fertilizer will help it produce more flowers and improve its overall health. A balanced slow-release fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is ideal for this plant.
Propagation
The plant can propagate through its seeds or stem cuttings. Collect seeds when the seeded heads are completely dry and have browned, making them environmentally stable. Seeds can be dispersed through the wind, meaning the plant self-sows.
Cultivation methods
Aster commutatus var. crassulus is a perennial plant that can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 5a to 8b. It prefers well-drained, loamy or sandy soil that is slightly acidic. It can be grown from seeds or transplanted from an established plant.
The best time to plant Aster commutatus var. crassulus is in the spring or the fall. It requires full sun to thrive, so it should be planted in a location with at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Watering needs
Aster commutatus var. crassulus requires moderate watering. It should be watered deeply but infrequently, about once a week, depending on the weather conditions. It is important not to overwater as this can lead to root rot and other problems.
During the growing season, check the soil regularly to ensure that it remains moist but not waterlogged. In the winter, reduce watering as the plant becomes dormant.
Fertilization
Aster commutatus var. crassulus does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring can help to encourage healthy growth and blooming.
It is also important to ensure that the soil is rich in organic matter. Adding compost or well-rotted manure to the soil before planting can improve its nutrient content and structure. Mulching around the base of the plant can also help to retain moisture and nutrients.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Aster commutatus var. crassulus. However, deadheading or removing faded flowers can help to prolong blooming and promote the growth of new flowers.
In the fall, after the plant has finished blooming, it can be cut back to its base to encourage growth in the spring. It is important to ensure that any diseased or damaged foliage is removed to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Aster commutatus var. crassulus
Aster commutatus var. crassulus can be propagated either by seed or by division. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages and it is important to choose the right one for your situation.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation by seed is the most common method for Aster commutatus var. crassulus. The seeds can be sown directly in the garden or in pots indoors. If you choose to start the seeds indoors, sow them in mid to late winter, as the seeds require a period of cold stratification before they will germinate. Once the seedlings have emerged, continue to grow them indoors until after the last frost date for your area. Transplant them to the garden in the spring.
The advantage of propagating Aster commutatus var. crassulus by seed is that it is an easy and inexpensive method. However, it can take several years for the plants to reach maturity.
Propagation by Division
Aster commutatus var. crassulus can also be propagated by division. This method involves digging up an existing plant and dividing it into smaller sections. Each section should have its own roots and shoot, and can be replanted immediately.
The advantage of propagating Aster commutatus var. crassulus by division is that the resulting plants are clones of the original, so you know exactly what you are getting. Additionally, because the plants are mature when they are divided, they will bloom the following season.
However, the disadvantage of this method is that it is more labor-intensive and requires an existing plant to work with. It is also more difficult to propagate larger numbers of plants this way.
Disease and Pest Management for Aster commutatus (Torr. & Gray) Gray var. crassulus (Rydb.) Blake
Aster commutatus (Torr. & Gray) Gray var. crassulus (Rydb.) Blake, commonly known as the Calico Aster, is a perennial plant that is native to the prairies and open woods of North America. It has a long blooming period and produces a profusion of dainty white to pinkish-purple flowers that bloom from August to November. However, this beautiful plant is also susceptible to various diseases and pests that can cause serious damage.
Common Diseases
The most common diseases that affect Calico Aster are fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust. Powdery mildew appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves, while leaf spots are brown or black spots on the leaves. Rust appears as orange or brown spots on the leaves and stems.
To manage these diseases, avoid overhead watering as this can promote the growth of fungal spores. Remove any diseased leaves or stems immediately and destroy them. Apply a fungicide spray to help prevent the spread of disease.
Common Pests
The most common pests that affect Calico Aster are aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests suck the sap from the leaves, which can cause the leaves to yellow, curl, or wilt.
To manage these pests, remove any infected plant debris and keep the area around the plant clean. Use a strong jet of water to wash off the pests or apply an insecticidal soap to kill them. Encourage natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings, which will feed on the pests.
Overall, maintaining healthy soil, providing adequate sunlight and water, and regularly monitoring the plant for any signs of disease or pests can help prevent serious damage to Aster commutatus (Torr. & Gray) Gray var. crassulus (Rydb.) Blake.
