Origin
Aster macrophyllus L. var. velutinus Burgess is a perennial flowering plant that is native to North America. This plant is primarily found in the central and eastern regions of the United States, and it grows in a variety of habitats, including moist woodlands, meadows, and prairies.
Common Names
Aster macrophyllus L. var. velutinus Burgess is commonly known as the Large-leaved Aster or Bigleaf Aster due to its large, heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 12 inches long and 8 inches wide. Other common names include Velvety Aster and Soft Aster, which refers to the plant's soft, velvety leaves.
Uses
Aster macrophyllus L. var. velutinus Burgess is primarily used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping. Its showy purple or pink flowers bloom in late summer and fall and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, headaches, and digestive issues.
General Appearance
The Large-leaved Aster or Aster macrophyllus L. var. velutinus Burgess typically grows to a height of 3 to 5 feet and a spread of 2 to 3 feet. The plant has a bushy growth habit with multiple stems that are covered in velvety hairs. Its leaves are large and heart-shaped with prominent veins and a dark green color. In late summer and fall, the plant produces clusters of small, daisy-like flowers that range in color from purple to pink. The plant's root system is rhizomatous, which means it spreads by producing underground stems.
Light Requirements
Aster macrophyllus L. var. velutinus Burgess plants require a moderate amount of sunlight to grow and thrive. A spot where the plant can receive at least 4-5 hours of direct sunlight daily is suitable for its growth. Too much exposure to direct sunlight, particularly in hot climates, can lead to wilting or scorching of the leaves and flowers. On the other hand, lack of adequate sunlight may make the plant grow leggy and with fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
These plants prefer cool to moderately warm temperatures, and they can tolerate temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C) during winter. In summer, the ideal temperature range for the plant's growth is between 60-75°F (15-24°C). While they can withstand extreme temperature fluctuations, avoid planting the Aster macrophyllus L. var. velutinus Burgess in areas with consistently high temperatures as it can cause stress and affect the plant's growth.
Soil Requirements
The Aster macrophyllus L. var. velutinus Burgess plant thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH between 5.5 and 7 is optimal. It is susceptible to root rot in moisture-retaining soil, so ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging. Clay or sandy soil is not suitable for these plants. Adding organic matter like compost can improve soil quality and moisture retention while also promoting healthy plant growth.
Cultivation of Aster macrophyllus L. var. velutinus Burgess
Aster macrophyllus L. var. velutinus Burgess is a sun-loving plant that thrives in well-draining, moderately fertile soil. It prefers a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0 and requires ample space to allow for its growth and branching. It is best planted in late spring or early fall when temperatures are mild.
Watering Needs of Aster macrophyllus L. var. velutinus Burgess
Aster macrophyllus L. var. velutinus Burgess requires regular watering to maintain adequate moisture levels to the roots. It is best to water deeply once a week, rather than frequent shallow watering, to ensure the roots get enough water. Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization of Aster macrophyllus L. var. velutinus Burgess
Aster macrophyllus L. var. velutinus Burgess benefits from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and bloom. It is best to use a balanced granular fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Be careful not to overfertilize, which can cause excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms.
Pruning of Aster macrophyllus L. var. velutinus Burgess
Aster macrophyllus L. var. velutinus Burgess benefits from regular pruning to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Prune the plant in late spring or early summer by cutting back one-third of the stems to just above a set of leaves. Deadheading spent flowers throughout the growing season can also encourage new blooms and prolong the flowering period.
Propagation methods for Aster macrophyllus L. var. velutinus Burgess
Aster macrophyllus L. var. velutinus Burgess, also known as the big-leaved aster, is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to eastern North America. It is a popular ornamental plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family, and its beautiful blue-purple flowers attract many pollinators. Propagation of this plant can be done by different methods that include:
Seed propagation
Seeds are the most common way of propagating the big-leaved aster. The best time to collect seeds is in the fall after the flowers have faded, and the seedheads have turned brown. Seeds need to be stored in a cool and dry place before sowing them in the spring. To increase the germination rate, they should be stratified in the refrigerator for 6-8 weeks before planting them.
Division propagation
Division propagation is another common method of propagating Aster macrophyllus L. var. velutinus Burgess. It involves dividing the mature clumps of the plant into smaller sections and planting them in new locations. This method is best performed in the spring when new growth begins. The sections should have at least one healthy stem and a good root system. After planting, it is essential to water them regularly.
Cuttings propagation
Cuttings propagation can also be used to propagate the big-leaved aster. This method involves taking stem cuttings from the parent plant and rooting them. The best time to take cuttings is in the late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be around four to six inches long and taken from a healthy, mature plant. Cutting should be taken early in the morning and should be dipped in rooting hormone powder before planting them in a well-draining potting mix. It is important to keep the soil moist and give them bright, indirect light.
Overall, Aster macrophyllus L. var. velutinus Burgess is an easy-to-grow plant that can be propagated by three different methods: seed propagation, division propagation, and cuttings propagation. Each of these methods has its advantages and disadvantages, and gardeners can choose the one that works best for them depending on their resources and needs.
Disease Management
Aster macrophyllus L. var. velutinus Burgess is prone to several diseases. One of the common diseases is powdery mildew, which creates a white-colored powdery growth on leaves and stems. Rust is another common disease that results in the formation of orange-colored spots on the lower surface of leaves and stems. To prevent the occurrence of diseases in Aster macrophyllus L. var. velutinus Burgess, it is important to plant it in well-drained soil and ensure proper air circulation.
Fungicides can be used to control severe infections of diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. Common fungicides used are neem oil, potassium bicarbonate, and sulfur. It's essential to follow the correct formulation, rate, and timing when applying fungicides for optimal effectiveness.
Pest Management
Aster macrophyllus L. var. velutinus Burgess is susceptible to various pests, including aphids, spider mites, and leafhoppers. Aphids suck the sap from the plant creating curling leaves, stunted growth, and yellowing. Spider mites are tiny pests that damage plants by piercing plant cells and sucking out the contents, causing stippling and yellowing of the leaves. Leafhoppers, on the other hand, feed on the plant's sap and cause leaves to turn yellow and curl up.
To manage these pests, cultural practices such as watering and fertilization practices should be optimized to maintain the plant's health. Aphids and spider mites can be removed by using a strong flow of water to wash them off the plant. Insecticidal soaps or oils can also be used to control light infestations of pests. However, severe infestations might require the use of chemical insecticides such as carbaryl and permethrin, it's crucial to follow the guidelines advocated by manufacturers to avoid harm to non-target organisms such as pollinators.
Regular inspection of the plant to detect any occurrence of pests or diseases' symptoms and taking proactive measures to control them is essential. Always ensure to distance infected plants from healthy ones to prevent the spread of pest and diseases.
