Plant Description:
Aster falcatus Lindl. ssp. commutatus (Torr. & Gray) A.G. Jones, commonly known as the desert aster, is a flowering perennial plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. The plant is native to North America, specifically found in the southwestern region of the United States and northern Mexico. It is a hardy plant that can grow in difficult and harsh environments that have low water supply.
General Appearance:
The desert aster typically grows up to 3 feet in height and 2 feet in width. It has thin stems that grow from the base of the plant. The leaves are oblong in shape and have toothed edges. The flowers are small and daisy-like, with white to pale pink petals that surround a bright yellow center. The flowers bloom in the late summer and early fall and attract butterflies and bees.
Uses:
The desert aster has many uses, both medicinal and ornamental. The plant has been used historically by Native Americans to treat a variety of ailments, such as fever, congestion, and pain relief. The plant's roots were used to make tea, which was believed to have healing properties. The desert aster is also used as a landscaping plant due to its hardiness and low maintenance requirements. Its attractive flowers and ability to thrive in difficult environments make it popular for use in xeriscaping.
Common Names:
Aside from desert aster, Aster falcatus Lindl. ssp. commutatus is also commonly known as the Rocky Mountain aster, featherleaf aster, and variegated aster.
Light requirements:
Aster falcatus Lindl. ssp. commutatus (Torr. & Gray) A.G. Jones typically grows in full sun to partial shade conditions. However, it prefers bright light for optimum growth and flowering. In shaded areas, the plant tends to become lanky and not as compact as those grown in full sun.
Temperature requirements:
The plant grows in a variety of temperatures; however, it prefers a cool to a moderate climate. The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C). The species can tolerate colder conditions, but frost can damage or kill the plant. Similarly, extreme heat can also cause the plant to wilt and die.
Soil requirements:
Aster falcatus Lindl. ssp. commutatus (Torr. & Gray) A.G. Jones prefers well-draining and fertile soil. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types but thrives in moist and slightly acidic soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The plant also benefits from occasional fertilization to support its growth and flowering.
Cultivation
Aster falcatus Lindl. ssp. commutatus (Torr. & Gray) A.G. Jones is relatively easy to cultivate, as it requires basic care to thrive. This plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. It can tolerate a range of soil conditions, as long as the soil doesn't become waterlogged. The plant needs to be planted in an area that receives full sun. The plant can be propagated through the division of the root system, or by sowing seeds.
Watering Needs
Aster falcatus Lindl. ssp. commutatus (Torr. & Gray) A.G. Jones doesn't tolerate drought well, so it requires regular watering during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is essential to ensure that the soil is well-drained.
Fertilization
Aster falcatus Lindl. ssp. commutatus (Torr. & Gray) A.G. Jones benefits from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and flowering. Fertilizer should be applied during the growing season, about once every two weeks, using a balanced fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Pruning
Aster falcatus Lindl. ssp. commutatus (Torr. & Gray) A.G. Jones doesn't require much pruning, but allowing the plant to dry out and die back in the winter can help to promote healthy growth in the spring. Cut back any dead or damaged material from the previous growing season before new growth appears. It is essential to avoid cutting back any green growth, as this can damage the plant.
Propagation Methods for Aster falcatus Lindl. ssp. commutatus (Torr. & Gray) A.G. Jones
Aster falcatus Lindl. ssp. commutatus (Torr. & Gray) A.G. Jones, commonly known as Rocky Mountain aster or winged aster, is a beautiful herbaceous perennial plant. It is native to the western United States and is well adapted to grow in high-altitude regions characterized by harsh climatic conditions such as low temperatures and high winds.
There are several methods of propagating Aster falcatus Lindl. ssp. commutatus, and they include:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Aster falcatus Lindl. ssp. commutatus. Seeds are readily available, easy to store and germinate, and produce genetically diverse plants. Under optimal conditions, seeds germinate within 14-28 days and produce seedlings, which can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the field. Seed propagation is best done during the spring in a well-draining moist soil medium, and the seedlings should be protected from direct sunlight and strong winds.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is another viable method of propagating Aster falcatus Lindl. ssp. commutatus. This method involves the use of stem cuttings taken from a healthy plant, which are then rooted in rooting hormone and transplanted into well-draining soil medium. Cuttings should be taken in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing and producing new shoots. Cuttings should be approximately 4-6 inches long, and all the leaves should be removed except for the top two. The cuttings should be kept moist and protected from direct sunlight until they develop roots and new leaves.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is best suited for Aster falcatus Lindl. ssp. commutatus plants that have established clumps. This method involves the careful separation of the plant clump into several sections, each with its root system. The best time to do this is in early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing and has not yet reached its full height. Each section should be replanted in well-draining soil and kept moist until new growth appears.
In conclusion, Aster falcatus Lindl. ssp. commutatus can be propagated through several methods, including seed propagation, cutting propagation, and division propagation. Farmers and hobbyists can choose the best method that suits their needs and resources.
Disease Management
Aster falcatus Lindl. ssp. commutatus (Torr. & Gray) A.G. Jones is generally a hardy plant with few disease problems. However, there are a few diseases that can affect this plant, such as:
- Root rot: caused by Pythium or Phytophthora fungus. This disease can cause yellowing of leaves, wilting, and root rot. To manage, avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage.
- Powdery mildew: a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves. This disease can be managed by avoiding overhead watering and providing good air circulation.
- Rust: caused by a fungal disease that produces orange or reddish-brown spots on the leaves. To manage rust, remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering.
Pest Management
Aster falcatus Lindl. ssp. commutatus (Torr. & Gray) A.G. Jones can also be affected by a few pests. It is important to keep a lookout for the following pests and take necessary measures to manage them:
- Aphids: tiny, pear-shaped pests that can cause curling of leaves, stunting of growth, and yellowing of leaves. To manage, simply wash the aphids away with a blast of water or use insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: tiny, yellow or brown pests that form webs under the leaves. They can cause yellowing and curling of leaves. To manage spider mites, wash the leaves with water and use an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Cabbage loopers: green caterpillars that eat the leaves. To manage, handpick and remove the caterpillars or use an organic pesticide like Bacillus thuringiensis.
