Calico aster typically starts flowering in late summer or early fall, usually in August or September.
calico aster
Symphyotrichum lateriflorum 'Lady in Black'
The Calico Aster is a stunning flower from the Aster family that features bright, pink-hued petals surrounding a central, purple disk. This cultivar is called 'Lady in Black' because of its unique dark-colored center. Notable characteristics include its tall stature, which can reach up to 4 feet, and grey-green leaves. An attractive wildflower for any garden, its dense clusters of flowers bloom in late summer and attract butterflies and other pollinators. This hardy perennial is a low-maintenance addition that only requires some light pruning to keep it looking its best.
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Seed Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
4 - 8
Flowers:
White with reddish-purple centers Flowers In Autumn
Sun:
Full sun
Soil:
Well-drained
Fruits:
black Fruits In Autumn Ready In
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
purple,black
Growth Rate:
High
Maintenance:
Low
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Calico asters (Symphyotrichum lateriflorum 'Lady in Black') should be watered deeply when the top 2 inches of soil become dry. Depending on the temperature and light exposure, this may mean watering weekly or every few days. Once established, calico asters have low to moderate water requirements, and benefit from regular deep watering. Be sure to water near the root zone rather than over the leaves. Excess water should always be able to drain away, as asters are susceptible to root rot.
sunlight
Calico aster (Symphyotrichum lateriflorum 'Lady in Black') do best in locations with full sun to partial sun, or 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day. This species tolerates more sun in cooler climates, but can also thrive in part shade. It's important to find the right balance for this plant, too much shade can cause it to become leggy and too much sun can cause its foliage to become scorched. Water regularly and deeply to keep the soil moist until the plant is established. After that, this species should do fine with occasional deep soaking.
pruning
Calico Aster should be pruned back aggressively in early spring, before new growth appears. It is important to prune it back far enough to remove the old, dead stems and open up the center of the plant, allowing for new growth. Pruning back to 12-15 inches will produce the most abundant new growth and flower production afterwards. Deadheading spent flowers will also help to promote more blooming and can be done throughout the growing season.
Season
Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering
Harvest Fruit
The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Symphyotrichum lateriflorum 'Lady in Black' is in September and October.
Starts Flowering
Calico aster typically starts flowering in late summer or early fall, usually in August or September.
