Origin
Aster lateriflorus (L.) Britt. var. spatelliformis (Burgess) A.G. Jones is a species of flowering plant from the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America and can be found growing in various regions of the United States, including the eastern and central parts of the country.
Common Names
Aster lateriflorus (L.) Britt. var. spatelliformis (Burgess) A.G. Jones is commonly known as the "Calico Aster" or the "Starry Aster." These names are a reference to the plant's small, starry flowers that bloom in the fall.
Uses
Aster lateriflorus (L.) Britt. var. spatelliformis (Burgess) A.G. Jones is primarily used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping. It is valued for its attractive small white to pinkish star-like flowers that bloom in the fall and for its foliage, which turns deep red late into the season. The plant is also known to be a significant source of nectar and pollen to butterflies and other pollinators.
General Appearance
Aster lateriflorus (L.) Britt. var. spatelliformis (Burgess) A.G. Jones is a perennial plant that grows up to 3 feet tall and up to 2 feet wide. It has slender and willowy green leaves that are ovate to lanceolate in shape. The leaves are small and grow alternately on the stem, and they turn a deep red in the autumn, adding to the plant's ornamental value. The flower heads grow at the end of branching stems and are small and daisy-like. They have white to pinkish, narrow ray florets that are arranged around yellowish to orange disk florets at the center. The fruit produced by the plant is a schizocarp, which is a dry fruit that splits into two or more sections, and is an adaptation of the plant for seed dispersal.
Light Requirements
Aster lateriflorus (L.) Britt. var. spatelliformis (Burgess) A.G. Jones commonly known as Calico aster prefers to grow in full sun. The plant requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimum growth. However, it can also tolerate some shade provided it is not too dense as it can lead to weak stems and excess foliage growth.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can grow in a wide range of temperatures. It is adapted to USDA hardiness zones 4-8 which means that it can withstand temperatures as low as -30°F (-34.4°C) in winter. However, during the growing season, the optimum temperature range is 65-80°F (18.3-26.7°C). In areas where the temperature exceeds 90°F (32.2°C) during summertime, this plant may need some extra shade to avoid wilting or stress.
Soil Requirements
Aster lateriflorus (L.) Britt. var. spatelliformis (Burgess) A.G. Jones can thrive in a variety of soils ranging from loamy to clay, as long as it is well-draining. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (6.0-7.5). However, it can also tolerate slightly alkaline soils. To improve the soil quality, it is recommended to add organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure before planting. The plant can also benefit from occasional fertilization during the growing season.
Cultivation Methods
Aster lateriflorus (L.) Britt. var. spatelliformis (Burgess) A.G. Jones is a hardy plant that can thrive in full sun or partial shade. It prefers fertile, well-drained soil. The plant needs to be propagated through seed or division during the fall or spring season. The ideal spacing for the plant is approximately 18-24 inches apart.
Watering Needs
Aster lateriflorus (L.) Britt. var. spatelliformis (Burgess) A.G. Jones requires regular watering during the first year of planting to ensure that the root system establishes properly. Once established, the plant can tolerate dry conditions and can thrive with occasional watering. However, during prolonged drought, the plant will need regular watering for optimal growth.
Fertilization
The plant doesn't require much fertilization, but you can fertilize it with organic or chemical fertilizers during the spring or fall seasons. Too much fertilizer can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced flower production. Care should be taken to apply fertilizers cautiously and as directed.
Pruning
Regular pruning can keep Aster lateriflorus (L.) Britt. var. spatelliformis (Burgess) A.G. Jones tidy and help to maintain its shape. The plant should be pruned in the early spring, taking care not to cut into the woody portions of the plant. Deadheading or removing spent flower heads will encourage the growth of new blossoms.
Propagation methods for Aster lateriflorus (L.) Britt. var. spatelliformis (Burgess) A.G. Jones
Propagation of Aster lateriflorus (L.) Britt. var. spatelliformis (Burgess) A.G. Jones can be done through various methods, including:
Seed propagation
This method involves collecting the seeds from the mature plant in the fall, before the first frost. The seeds should be stratified in the winter at temperatures between 33-41? for about 30-40 days. After stratification, sow the seeds in a well-drained soil mix in a greenhouse or under grow lights. Keep the soil moist but not overwatered and provide temperatures between 68-77?. Germination can take anywhere from 7-21 days depending on the conditions.
Division
Propagation through division is best done in the spring or fall. Dig up the mature plant and gently separate the root clumps into smaller divisions. Ensure that each division has at least one healthy stem and root system. Replant the new divisions in well-draining soil and keep them watered and in partial shade until they establish roots.
Cuttings
This method involves taking 3-6 inch long stem cuttings from mature plants in the summer. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist but not overwatered and provide high humidity conditions under a plastic cover or in a humidified greenhouse. After a few weeks, roots should start to develop and the cuttings can be transplanted to larger containers before finally being planted outdoors.
Disease Management
Aster lateriflorus (L.) Britt. var. spatelliformis (Burgess) A.G. Jones is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes white, powdery growth on the plant's leaves and stems. To manage this disease, it is recommended to prune the affected parts of the plant and avoid overhead watering. Chemical fungicides can also be used to control powdery mildew.
- Rust: Rust is another fungal disease that causes orange or yellow-brown pustules on the plant's leaves and stems. The best way to manage rust is to remove infected plant parts and dispose of them. Fungicides like copper-based or sulfur-based products can also be used for control.
- Leaf spot: This disease causes spots to appear on the plant's leaves, which can lead to defoliation. To manage leaf spot, it is recommended to practice good sanitation by removing fallen leaves and debris. Fungicides can also be effective in controlling leaf spot.
Pest Management
Aster lateriflorus (L.) Britt. var. spatelliformis (Burgess) A.G. Jones is known to attract several pests, including:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects suck sap from the plant's leaves and stems, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage aphids, it is recommended to use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and stippling of the leaves. To manage spider mites, the plant can be sprayed with a strong stream of water to knock them off, or insecticidal soap can be used.
- Slugs and snails: These pests feed on the plant's leaves and stems, leaving behind holes and damage. To manage slugs and snails, it is recommended to handpick them or use bait traps. Copper bands or diatomaceous earth can also be used to create a barrier around the plant.
