Symphyotrichum oblongifolium
A lax-growing herbaceous perennial with woody, weak growth making clumps up to 1m in height. The leaves are narrow and oblong and aromatic. From September to October, the plant is covered with sprays of pale purple 'daisies'. Resists mildew well
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Green | |||
Autumn | Purple | Green | ||
Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Exposed or ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy, Clump forming
- Genus
Symphyotrichum includes around 90 species of annuals, biennials and perennials, mostly spread through the Americas, that were formerly included within the genus Aster. Leaves are simple, lance-shaped and entire, but it is their daisy-like flowerheads that they are grown for; central disc florets are typically yellow, surrounded by strap-shaped ray florets in shades of pink, blue, purple or white
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- E to NC US
How to grow
Cultivation
Grows best in neutral to alkaline soil in full sun. Does not do well in winter wet, but does tolerate drought once established
Propagation
Propagate by division in early spring, or by softwood cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Gravel garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Prairie planting
- Low Maintenance
- Banks and slopes
- Flower borders and beds
- Wall side borders
- Cut flowers
Pruning
Cut down to ground level at the end of the year
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to Verticillium wilt
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