General Appearance
Symphyotrichum foliaceum (DC.) Nesom var. parryi (D.C. Eat.) Nesom, commonly known as Rocky Mountain aster, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to North America and is found in Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, and Saskatchewan. The Rocky Mountain aster is a herbaceous plant that grows up to 40 inches in height. The plant produces yellow-green stems that are covered with numerous small leaves and purple flowers.
Uses
The Rocky Mountain aster has medicinal properties and is traditionally used by Native American tribes as a remedy for a variety of ailments such as diarrhea, colds, and coughs. The plant is also used as a food source for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Common Names
Symphyotrichum foliaceum (DC.) Nesom var. parryi (D.C. Eat.) Nesom is commonly known as Rocky Mountain aster and Western leaf aster. The plant is also referred to as Aster foliaceus, Aster parryi, Eurybia foliacea, Eurybia parryi, and Eurybia foliacea var. parryi.
Light Requirements
The Symphyotrichum foliaceum (DC.) Nesom var. parryi (D.C. Eat.) Nesom typically grows in areas that receive full sun or partial shade. It may grow as an understory plant when there are taller shrubs or trees present. The plant benefits from full sun exposure for at least six hours a day. In shaded areas, the plant tends to be leggy and does not produce as many flowers compared to plants grown in full sun.
Soil Requirements
The plant can grow in various soil types as long as they are well-drained and not waterlogged. The ideal soil pH for this plant ranges from 6.0 to 8.0. The Symphyotrichum foliaceum (DC.) Nesom var. parryi (D.C. Eat.) Nesom can grow well in sandy to clay soils, provided the soil is not compacted. Loose soil structure can improve the plant's root development and allow for better nutrient uptake.
Water Requirements
The Symphyotrichum foliaceum (DC.) Nesom var. parryi (D.C. Eat.) Nesom plant requires moderate watering. As with most plants, overwatering should be avoided as it can cause root rot and other diseases. The plant prefers moist soil, but not waterlogged. If grown in a container, allow the top few inches of soil to dry out before watering.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is best adapted to grow in regions with a continental climate. It can tolerate temperatures ranging from -40°F to 90°F (-40 to 32°C). The plant's growth rate is affected by temperature, and it blooms from mid-summer to early fall. In regions with hot summers, it would benefit from afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorching.
Cultivation methods
Symphyotrichum foliaceum (DC.) Nesom var. parryi (D.C. Eat.) Nesom is native to North America and prefers full sun to partial shade. It can grow in a variety of soil types, but prefers well-draining soils that are moist but not overly wet. The plant can be propagated through stem cuttings or seeds, and it's best to plant it in the spring or fall.
Watering needs
The plant requires moderate watering, and it's best to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The frequency of watering will depend on the climate and soil types but generally, it's best to water the plant deeply once a week. Avoid overwatering, as this will lead to root rot and other related issues.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization is not necessary for this plant as it can thrive in nutrient-poor soil. However, adding a slow-release fertilizer once or twice a year during the growing season can help promote healthy growth and flowering.
Pruning
Pruning should be done in the early spring before new growth starts. This plant can become leggy if left unpruned, so it's best to cut back the stems by half to promote bushier growth. Deadheading spent blooms will also encourage the plant to produce more flowers throughout the season.
Propagation of Symphyotrichum foliaceum var. parryi
Symphyotrichum foliaceum var. parryi can be propagated through various techniques such as seed sowing, cuttings, and division.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Symphyotrichum foliaceum var. parryi can be sown directly into the soil during spring or fall. The soil should be well-draining and moist. The seeds should be sown at a depth of approximately 1/4 inch and spaced about 12 inches apart. Germination usually occurs within 2-3 weeks. As seedlings grow, thin them out to maintain a distance of at least 18-24 inches between individual plants.
Cutting Propagation
Softwood cuttings can be taken during the spring or summer. Take 3- or 4-inch cuttings from the tip of healthy stems. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cuttings in moist soil and keep them in a warm and humid environment. It takes about 4-6 weeks for the cuttings to root. Once the roots have established, transplant them to their permanent location.
Division Propagation
Division is the simplest way to propagate Symphyotrichum foliaceum var. parryi. This can be done during spring or fall. Dig up the entire plant and gently separate the roots into smaller clumps. Replant these clumps into the prepared soil and water thoroughly. Keep the soil moist and protect them from harsh sunlight until they're established.
Disease Management
Symphyotrichum foliaceum var. parryi is susceptible to several diseases, including powdery mildew, rust, leaf spot, and stem canker. These diseases can cause damage to the plant and reduce its overall health and appearance. The following are some management strategies for these diseases:
- Powdery Mildew: This disease is caused by a fungal infection and appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plant parts and increase air circulation around the plant. Fungicides can also be used to control the fungus.
- Rust: Rust is another fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant, causing orange or yellow spots. These spots eventually turn black and cause the leaves to drop. To manage rust, remove and destroy infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used to control the fungus.
- Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is caused by a bacterial infection and appears as brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used to control the bacteria.
- Stem Canker: Stem canker is caused by a fungal infection and can cause wilting and death of the plant. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used to control the fungus.
Pest Management
Symphyotrichum foliaceum var. parryi is also susceptible to several pests, including aphids, spider mites, and thrips. These pests can cause damage to the plant and reduce its overall health and appearance. The following are some management strategies for these pests:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, wash them off the plant with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the undersides of the leaves, causing a stippled appearance. To manage spider mites, remove and destroy infected plant parts and increase humidity around the plant. Insecticidal soap can also be used to control the mites.
- Thrips: Thrips are small, slender insects that feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant, causing distorted growth and discoloration. To manage thrips, remove and destroy infected plant parts and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the insects.
