Overview
Boltonia asteroides (L.) L'Hér. var. latisquama (Gray) Cronq., commonly known as Bolton's aster or white doll's daisy, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the family Asteraceae.
Origin
The plant is native to the eastern United States, where it can be found in moist meadows, prairies, and along stream banks.
Appearance
Boltonia asteroides var. latisquama is characterized by its height, typically reaching heights of 4-6 feet. It has a spreading, clumping growth habit and can produce numerous branches with a dense foliage of slender, lance-shaped leaves that are 1-3 inches long. During late summer to early fall, it produces showy, white, daisy-like flowers that are about 1 inch in diameter with yellow centers. The plant's seeds have feathery pappus that help them disperse by wind.
Uses
Boltonia asteroides var. latisquama is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping due to its attractive appearance. It is also used in erosion control and habitat restoration projects. The plant has no known medicinal uses, but it is sometimes used in the production of cut flowers.
Light requirements
Boltonia asteroides var. latisquama grows well in full sun to partial shade environments. Ideally, the plant should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to promote healthy growth and flowering. In shady areas, the plant tends to become less vigorous and produce fewer flowers.
Temperature requirements
This plant is native to North America, where it grows in various climates. Boltonia asteroides var. latisquama is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8, meaning it can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, the ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60 and 75°F (15-24°C). It can survive winter temperatures below freezing when properly established.
Soil requirements
Boltonia asteroides var. latisquama prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can adapt to a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they are well-draining. However, the plant does not tolerate heavy, waterlogged soils. The soil pH range should be between 6.0 and 7.5, which is slightly acidic to slightly alkaline.
Cultivation Methods
Boltonia asteroides var. latisquama is a hardy perennial plant that is generally easy to cultivate. It grows best in full sun or partial shade and prefers moist, well-draining soil. This plant can also tolerate a wide range of soils, including clay and sandy soils, but it does not like soil that is constantly wet or boggy.
You can propagate this plant by dividing the root clumps in the spring or fall. When planting new specimens, space them at least two feet apart to allow for their mature growth.
Watering Needs
Boltonia asteroides var. latisquama requires plenty of moisture, particularly during its first growing season. Make sure the soil around the plant stays moist but not wet. After the first year, this plant can tolerate periods of drought, but prolonged periods without water may cause the plant to wilting.
It is also important to avoid getting water on the foliage, which may lead to fungal infections and other diseases.
Fertilization
Boltonia asteroides var. latisquama can benefit from fertilization, particularly in nutrient-poor soils. You can apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 formula, in the early spring as new growth begins. Be sure to follow the directions on the label and avoid over-fertilizing, as this may cause the plant to produce less flower and more foliage.
Pruning
Boltonia asteroides var. latisquama does not require a lot of pruning, but you may want to remove any dead or diseased foliage as needed. If the plant becomes too large and starts to flop over, you can cut back the stems by about one-third in the early summer to encourage a bushier and more compact growth habit.
Prune the plant to just above the new growth, and be sure to sanitize your pruning tools to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Boltonia asteroides (L.) L'Hér. var. latisquama (Gray) Cronq.
Boltonia asteroides (L.) L'Hér. var. latisquama (Gray) Cronq. can be propagated through various methods including seed propagation, stem cuttings, and division of clumps.
Seed Propagation
The easiest method of propagation is through seed. The seeds mature in late summer and can be collected and sown immediately or stored in a cool, dry place until the following spring. The seeds of Boltonia asteroides (L.) L'Hér. var. latisquama (Gray) Cronq. require light for germination, so they should be sprinkled on the surface of the soil and lightly pressed in.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken in spring or summer. The cuttings should be 3-4 inches long with several leaves attached. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be planted in a moist, well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be kept in a warm, bright location with high humidity until they root.
Division of Clumps
Boltonia asteroides (L.) L'Hér. var. latisquama (Gray) Cronq. can also be propagated by division of large clumps in the spring or fall. The clumps should be carefully lifted and divided into smaller sections with a sharp, clean knife. Each division should have several stems and a healthy root system. The divisions can then be replanted in a prepared bed.
Disease and Pest Management for Boltonia asteroides (L.) L'Hér. var. latisquama (Gray) Cronq.
As with all plants, Boltonia asteroides is susceptible to a range of diseases and pests. Here are some of the most common ones that might affect this plant and how to manage them:
Diseases
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that causes the roots to rot, reducing the plant's ability to absorb water and nutrients. It can be caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or a lack of oxygen in the soil. To prevent root rot, make sure the plant is not overwatered, and the soil has proper drainage. In the case of root rot, remove the plant from the soil and cut off the affected roots, replant in fresh soil.
Leaf Spots: Leaf spots are fungal diseases that cause brown or black spots on the leaves. They can be caused by wet foliage or overhead watering. To prevent leaf spots, avoid getting the leaves wet when watering, and plant in an area with good air circulation. To treat leaf spots, remove the affected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to wilt and yellow. They can be managed by applying insecticidal soap or a neem oil solution to the leaves. Predatory insects such as ladybugs can also be introduced to the area to consume aphids.
Spider Mites: Spider Mites are tiny, sap-sucking pests that can cause bronzing and yellowing of the leaves. They thrive in hot, dry conditions. To prevent spider mites, mist the plant frequently and keep the humidity around the plant high. If you notice an infestation, spray the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap or use an insecticidal spray.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of butterflies and moths and can feed on the leaves of the plant. To prevent caterpillar infestations, keep the area around the plant clear of debris and treat with a BT (Bacillus thuringiensis) spray or insecticidal soap when necessary to kill off any caterpillars.
By taking preventative measures against diseases and pests, and treating infestations immediately, you can help keep your Boltonia asteroides healthy and thriving.
