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Herbaceous Perennial

Symphyotrichum oblongifolium
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

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

Synonyms
Aster oblongifolius
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Sand
Loam
Chalk
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green
Autumn Purple Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

West–facing or South–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H7
Botanical 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

Get involved

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