Overview
Symphyotrichum lateriflorum (L.) A.& D. Löve var. flagellare (Shinners) Nesom, commonly known as the calico aster, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae (sunflower) family. This plant is native to North America, particularly in the eastern and central regions of the United States.
Description
The calico aster is an upright, clump-forming plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall. It has slender stems and narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are dark green in color and up to 4 inches long. The plant bears tiny flowers that are pink or lavender in color and have yellow centers. The flowers bloom from August to October, and their fruit is a tiny, ridged achene.
Common Names
The calico aster is also commonly known as the starved aster, awl-aster, and white wood aster.
Uses
While the calico aster is primarily grown as an ornamental plant, it can also be used medicinally. American indigenous communities commonly used the dried leaves of the calico aster to make tea as a natural remedy for headaches, fever and rash. The dried and ground up root of the calico aster was used as a traditional treatment for menstrual pain in the past.
The calico aster’s ability to attract butterflies and bees makes it a useful addition to pollinator gardens. The plant can be grown in containers or planted in groupings in garden borders, rock gardens, and wildflower meadows, as it adapts well to a wide range of soil types and growing conditions.
Light
Symphyotrichum lateriflorum var. flagellare grows well in full sun or partial shade. It can tolerate bright sunlight, but it prefers a shaded environment.
Temperature
This plant species thrives in a temperature range of 15-25°C. It cannot withstand extreme temperatures such as frost or high heat. Normal room temperatures are suitable for growing Symphyotrichum lateriflorum var. flagellare indoors, while outdoor planting should be done in the spring or fall to avoid extreme weather conditions.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows well in both well-drained and moist soils. It can tolerate poor soil quality, but it prefers a rich, loamy soil that is slightly acidic. It can also tolerate soil pH levels between 6.0 and 7.5. Symphyotrichum lateriflorum var. flagellare requires consistent moisture, and planting it in soil with good drainage will help prevent waterlogging.
Cultivation Methods
Symphyotrichum lateriflorum var. flagellare is a hardy and adaptable plant that can tolerate different soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. It thrives best in full sun but also tolerates partial shade. The plant prefers well-drained soils and is well-suited for gardens, borders, and prairies.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering to establish the root system. However, it is drought-tolerant, and frequent watering is unnecessary once it is established. Water the plant whenever the soil is dry to the touch, preferably in the early morning or late afternoon, to avoid water evaporation due to heat.
Fertilization
Symphyotrichum lateriflorum var. flagellare is not a heavy feeder, and fertilizing is generally not necessary. However, if the soil lacks nutrients, apply an organic fertilizer in the spring season before the plant begins actively growing. Avoid over-fertilization, as it may result in weak stems and excess foliage growth, which makes the plant susceptible to disease and pests.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Symphyotrichum lateriflorum var. flagellare. However, deadheading, the process of removing spent flowers, promotes continuous blooming and enhances the plant's appearance. Cut the dead flower stalks just above the first set of leaves below the spent flowers. Prune the plant in early spring to remove damaged or diseased stems and promote vigorous growth.
Propagation of Symphyotrichum lateriflorum var. flagellare
Symphyotrichum lateriflorum var. flagellare, commonly known as the trailing aster, is propagated mainly through seeds, but it can also be propagated through division and cuttings.
Seeds
Seeds of Symphyotrichum lateriflorum var. flagellare can be sown in the spring or fall. They require a period of cold stratification and exposure to natural light to germinate. Cold stratification can be achieved by placing seeds in the refrigerator for 30-60 days before sowing. Once the seeds have been stratified, they can be sown in a well-draining soil mix and covered with a thin layer of soil. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Germination typically occurs within 2-4 weeks.
Division
Division is another propagation method for Symphyotrichum lateriflorum var. flagellare. This is typically done in the spring or fall when the plant is actively growing. To propagate through division, dig up the plant and carefully separate the root ball into smaller sections using a sharp, sterile knife. Each section should have several stems and a good root system. Plant the divisions in a well-draining soil mix and water thoroughly.
Cuttings
Cuttings can also be taken from Symphyotrichum lateriflorum var. flagellare in the summer. This method involves taking a stem cutting that is about 4-6 inches long and removing the lower leaves. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and provide indirect light. Roots should form within 4-8 weeks.
Disease Management
Symphyotrichum lateriflorum var. flagellare can be affected by various diseases throughout its growth cycle. However, preventive measures can significantly reduce the chances of contracting these diseases.
One of the most common diseases that affect this plant is the powdery mildew. Powdery mildews can easily be identified with white or grey-colored fungal growths on the plant's leaves, stems, and flowers. It is best to avoid overhead irrigation, as this can create ideal circumstances for powdery mildew to thrive.
In the case of an existing powdery mildew infection, treatment with fungicides can clear it from the plant leaves. Among the recommended fungicides, one can include neem oil, copper-based fungicides, and sulfur-based fungicides. It is crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions while using these products as these can cause damage to the plant.
Pest Management
Being a member of the Asteraceae family, Symphyotrichum lateriflorum var. flagellare is vulnerable to certain pests. The plant's flowering structure can attract various types of insects, including whiteflies, mites, and aphids.
Whiteflies can typically cause damage by sucking the sap out of the plant's leaves and hence weakening them. Sticky traps can serve as effective deterrents, trapping whiteflies and deterring them from infesting the plant. In some cases, a stream of water can remove infestations.
Another pest that can potentially affect Symphyotrichum lateriflorum var. flagellare is the spider mites. These mites create tiny webs on the plant's leaves and tend to feed on the plant tissues. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can help kill them, but a repeat application may be necessary.
Aphids are another common pest that can attack the plant. These pests can damage the plant by sucking sap from the plant, leading to yellowing and curling of the leaves. A soapy spray of water can help clear these pests from the plant. Additionally, ants can often "farm" aphids, and a barrier of diatomaceous earth can prevent ants from climbing the plant to access the aphids.
Overall, keeping a keen eye on the plant's health and early detection of any disease or pest can go a long way in maintaining the plant's health and vigor.
