Overview
Aster ×schistosus Steele (pro sp.) is a hybrid plant resulting from a cross between Aster ascendens Lindl. and Aster pilosus Willd. ex R. Germ. The plant belongs to the Asteraceae family and is native to North America.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Schist aster, Willdenow's aster or Pilose Aster. The name "Schist aster" is derived from the fact that the plant grows naturally in rocky areas where schist is prevalent.
Appearance
The plant has a stout stem that can grow up to 60 cm tall and is typically unbranched. The leaves are alternate and ovate, with a serrated margin and sharp-pointed tip. The plant produces small, daisy-like flowers that are pink to purple in color, with a yellow center. The flowers grow in clusters at the top of the stem and can bloom in late summer to early fall.
Uses
Aster ×schistosus Steele (pro sp.) is mainly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks due to its showy flowers and hardy nature. The plant is also valued for its ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies to the area.
In traditional medicine, various parts of the plant are said to have healing properties. The plant was used by Native Americans to treat various ailments such as colds, coughs, and fever.
The plant has also been studied for its potential anti-cancer properties, with some studies suggesting that it may have a role in preventing the growth and spread of cancer cells.
Light Requirements
The Aster ×schistosus Steele plant prefers full sun exposure for optimal growth and health. It is best suited for open areas where it can receive direct sunlight for most of the day.
Temperature Requirements
These plants are typically hardy in USDA zones 4-8 and require cool to moderate temperatures for growth. They can tolerate temperatures ranging from 45°F to 85°F but prefer a cooler climate for optimal growth.
Soil Requirements
These plants can grow in a wide range of soil types, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils, as long as they are well-draining. They prefer soils that are slightly acidic to neutral with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. Adding organic matter such as compost to the soil can improve its structure, water-holding capacity, and nutrient content, leading to better growth and health of the Aster ×schistosus Steele plant.
Cultivation Methods for Aster ×schistosus Steele
Aster ×schistosus Steele is hardy and adaptable like most asters. It is an easy plant to cultivate and requires minimal attention to thrive. It can grow in most soil types, but it prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can still flourish even in partial shade.
Watering needs for Aster ×schistosus Steele
Aster ×schistosus Steele requires moderate watering. Adequate moisture is needed, particularly during its first growing season, after which it can sustain itself through regular rainfall. During periods of drought, make sure to supplement with regular watering, particularly if the soil appears to have dried out quite a bit.
Fertilization for Aster ×schistosus Steele
Aster ×schistosus Steele is not a high feeder, making it unnecessary to apply fertilizer frequently. A yearly application of a slow-release granular fertilizer, preferably a balanced 10-10-10 NPK formulation, is sufficient to keep it healthy and growing vigorously.
Pruning of Aster ×schistosus Steele
Pruning of Aster ×schistosus Steele involves cutting back the plant by one-third of its height at the end of the flowering season. Remove the spent flowers to encourage a second bloom season late in the fall. This plant is relatively low maintenance and can self-seed.
Propagation of Aster ×schistosus Steele (pro sp.)
Aster ×schistosus Steele (pro sp.), commonly known as Schist aster, is a hybrid plant that is propagated through seeds and stem cuttings.
Propagation through seeds
The easiest way to propagate Aster ×schistosus is through seeds. The seeds should be sown in well-drained soil in early spring. The soil should be moist, but not waterlogged. The seeds should be lightly covered with soil and kept in a warm, sunny spot until they germinate, which usually takes around 2 to 3 weeks.
Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots and grown until they are big enough to plant out in the garden. It usually takes 4-6 weeks for the seedlings to grow enough to be transplanted.
Propagation through stem cuttings
Aster ×schistosus can also be propagated through stem cuttings in late spring or early summer. Choose a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut it just below a leaf node. Remove the lower leaves from the stem and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with well-draining soil and keep it in a shaded area until it develops roots. This usually takes around 2 to 3 weeks. After the cutting has developed roots, it can be transplanted into the garden or a larger pot.
It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged until the new plant becomes established. Once established, Aster ×schistosus is relatively easy to grow and will provide a profusion of delicate, pink-purple flowers year after year.
Disease Management
Although Aster ×schistosus Steele is generally a healthy plant, it can be affected by a few diseases. The most common diseases that affect this plant are powdery mildew and rust.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of the plant. Symptoms of powdery mildew include a white, powdery substance on the surface of leaves and stems. To manage powdery mildew, remove the infected leaves and remove plant debris from around the plant to improve air circulation. Additionally, avoid overhead watering and consider fungicides as a last resort.
Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant. Symptoms include rust-colored spots on the leaves. To manage rust, remove the infected leaves and dispose of them. Consider applying a fungicide, but ensure that it is approved for use on this particular plant.
Pest Management
Aster ×schistosus Steele can also be affected by a few pests. The most common pests that affect this plant are aphids and spider mites.
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing distorted growth and yellowing leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap. Consider attracting natural predators such as ladybugs to control the population.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny mites that feed on the underside of the leaves, causing a stippled appearance and webbing. To manage spider mites, wash the plant with a strong jet of water or use an insecticidal soap. Consider increasing humidity around the plant to deter mites.
