Origin and Common Names
Lacinaria aspera (Michx.) Greene var. spheroidea (Michx.) Alexander, commonly known as Button blazing star or Spherical rough gayfeather, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. The plant is native to eastern North America, including the central and eastern United States, where it commonly grows in dry open woods, rocky uplands, and prairies.Appearance
Button blazing star grows up to a height of 2 to 3 feet and has a cluster of erect stems. The leaves are long and narrow, measuring 6 to 7 inches in length, and are arranged in a basal rosette. The stems have a rough texture and are covered with tiny hairs. The plant produces showy, small, globe-shaped inflorescences, ranging in color from purplish pink to white, that bloom in mid-summer and attract butterflies and bees. The flowers are densely packed with dozens of individual florets and are held aloft by upward-pointing stems.Uses
The plant has several traditional medicinal uses, including the treatment of coughs, respiratory ailments, and wounds. Various Native American tribes historically used the roots as a source of purple dye. Today, Button blazing star is a popular ornamental plant grown for its showy, long-lasting flowers and for its ability to attract pollinators to a garden. It is also used in prairie and meadow restorations as a native plant species that adds beauty and ecological conservation.Light Requirements
Lacinaria aspera var. spheroidea prefers full sun exposure to grow properly. It can also tolerate partial sunlight but may not reach its full potential in terms of growth and flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is hardy to USDA Zones 3-8 and can withstand low temperatures, as low as -40°F (-40°C). However, it does not do well in hot and humid conditions, especially in areas with temperatures exceeding 90°F (32°C).
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-drained, fertile soil to grow well. It prefers loamy soil that is slightly acidic to neutral in pH. While it can tolerate drought-like conditions, it does best when its soil is consistently moist. The plant can also tolerate some salt in the soil, making it a good option for areas near roads or seashores.
Cultivation methods for Lacinaria aspera var. spheroidea
Lacinaria aspera var. spheroidea is a hardy perennial that grows well in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 8. It thrives in full sunlight but can tolerate light shade. The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter but can tolerate a wide range of soil types. It is best to plant Lacinaria aspera var. spheroidea in the spring or fall when the soil is moist and temperatures are cool.
Watering needs for Lacinaria aspera var. spheroidea
Lacinaria aspera var. spheroidea requires regular watering, especially during its first year of establishment. The plant should be watered deeply once or twice a week, depending on the soil conditions and weather. It is important to avoid overwatering the plant as it can cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization for Lacinaria aspera var. spheroidea
Lacinaria aspera var. spheroidea responds well to regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Apply a slow-release fertilizer to the soil in the spring or early summer just before the growing season begins. The plant can also benefit from a mid-season application of nitrogen-rich fertilizer to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Pruning Lacinaria aspera var. spheroidea
Lacinaria aspera var. spheroidea does not require pruning, but it can benefit from deadheading. Remove faded flower heads to encourage more blooms and improve the plant's appearance. Cut back the entire plant to the ground in the fall after the first frost. This will help to prevent disease and prepare the plant for its winter dormancy period.
Propagation of Lacinaria aspera var. spheroidea
Lacinaria aspera var. spheroidea, also known as rough blazing star, prefers to grow in well-draining soil and full sunlight. Propagating Lacinaria aspera var. spheroidea can be done in several ways, including seed propagation, division, and stem cutting.
Seed propagation
Propagation of Lacinaria aspera var. spheroidea through seed can be done using fresh seeds preferably in the fall. The seed must be sown in a well-draining soil mix in pots or flats. Keep the soil moist until the seedlings emerge. Transplant seedlings after their second year of growing.
Division
Propagation through division can be done in early spring or late fall. Carefully dig up a mature plant and separate the crown into small sections, making sure each section has at least one healthy root. Replant the divided sections immediately.
Stem cutting
Propagation through stem cutting can be done in early spring. Cut the stem of mature plant into small sections, making sure each section has at least one node (region on stem that produces leaves or buds) and one healthy root. Place the cuttings in a well-draining mix of soil and sand and keep moist until new growth emerges. Transplant cuttings after their second year of growing.
Disease and Pest Management for Lacinaria aspera var. spheroidea
Lacinaria aspera is a species of flowering plant that is native to North America. Its var. spheroidea is a variety that is known for its attractive flowers and is commonly grown in gardens. However, the plant is susceptible to several diseases and pests that can affect its growth and health.
Common Diseases of Lacinaria aspera var. spheroidea
One of the most common diseases that affect this plant is powdery mildew, which appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems. This disease is caused by a fungus and can spread rapidly, especially in humid conditions. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to remove the infected leaves and stems and keep the plant dry. Spraying the plant with a fungicide can also help control the spread of the disease.
Another disease that can affect Lacinaria aspera var. spheroidea is rust, which produces orange or brown spots on the leaves and stems. This disease is caused by a fungus and can also spread rapidly in moist conditions. To manage rust, it is important to remove the infected leaves and stems and spray the plant with a fungicide.
Common Pests of Lacinaria aspera var. spheroidea
Aphids are a common pest that can infest Lacinaria aspera var. spheroidea. These pests feed on the sap of the plant and can cause the leaves to become discolored and distorted. To manage aphids, it is important to regularly inspect the plant for infestation and remove the affected leaves and stems. Spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil can also help control the pests.
Another pest that can infest this plant is the four-lined plant bug, which feeds on the leaves and stems. These pests cause irregular feeding patterns and can cause the plant to become stunted. To manage these pests, it is important to remove the affected leaves and stems and spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Overall, managing disease and pest infestations in Lacinaria aspera var. spheroidea requires vigilance and careful attention to the plant's health. By identifying and addressing problems quickly, gardeners can help ensure that this attractive plant remains healthy and thriving.
