stiff aster
Ionactis linariifolia
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Average
Hardiness Zone:
4 - 9
Flowers:
Blue-violet to purple with yellow centers Flowers In Summer
Sun:
full sun
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
silver,green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Low
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Stiff aster (Ionactis linariifolia) generally prefers moist, well-drained soil, and it's best to keep the soil lightly moist at all times. As a general rule, you should water your stiff aster once a week, allowing the top half inch of soil to dry out each time before watering. If the weather is very hot or dry, you may need to water more frequently. When watering, make sure to apply the water slowly and evenly so that it can penetrate the soil. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause the plant's roots to rot.
sunlight
Stiff aster (Ionactis linariifolia) needs full-sun exposure during the growing season for optimal growth and flowering. This plant thrives in an area that receives 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. In areas where there are low light levels, the plant may not flower. Plants grown in shady areas may show a distinct lack of vigor and will be much smaller. It may not be possible to get these asters to flower in heavily shaded areas.
pruning
Stiff aster can be pruned or cut back mid-spring to early summer, when it has finished flowering. When pruning, about 1/3 of the stems should be cut back to the crown of the plant. This will help to maintain the attractive shape of the plant, while encouraging new growth. Additionally, deadheading can be done throughout the growing season to keep the plant looking neat and tidy.
