Species skyblue aster

skyblue aster

Symphyotrichum oolentangiense

Sky Blue Aster is a perennial wildflower native to the United States. It has a showy, sky-blue flowerhead, which is made up of a cluster of small flowers in the shape of a daisy with multiple petals. This plant grows to heights of 1-4 feet and has lance-shaped leaves that are thick and softly woolly. Sky Blue Aster needs a moist, shady area in order to thrive and does well in moderately acidic soil. This species is the perfect addition to a garden that may be looking for a splash of color and texture.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Division,Root Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation,Stem Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 8

Flowers:

Blue rays with yellow center disks Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow,tan

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Skyblue asters need regular watering in order to perform at their best. Water deeply once a week, making sure to thoroughly wet the soil. This plant likes its soil kept fairly moist, so consider checking the soil with a finger once a week. If it feels dry, add more water, repeating until it is moist at least an inch below the surface. Do not let the soil dry out and avoid letting the plant sit in water or prolonged periods of wet soil, as it can encourage root rot.

sunlight

Skyblue aster is a sun-loving plant species that ideally requires 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. It is known to thrive and flower its best in full-sun locations. Planting in areas that receive full sunshine throughout the day is necessary for optimal plant performance. Skyblue aster does not necessarily need to experience the same amount of sunlight each day, but an overall 6-8 hours of direct sunlight exposure per day throughout the growing season is ideal. For best results, ensure consistent sun exposure for the plant.

pruning

Skyblue aster should be pruned once a year during dormancy, in late winter or early spring just before new growth begins. This is to ensure best flowering the following season. Start by cutting down the stems to just above the basal rosette of leaves. Removal of weak, dead, and damaged branches is also recommended to promote new and healthy growth. Prune out up to 1/3 of the stems to the ground, but be sure to leave a minimum of a few stems to preserve the overall shape and form of the plant. In addition to sterilizing pruning tools between cuts, rake and dispose of all plant debris to help prevent the spread of any pests or diseases.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Skyblue aster typically starts flowering in late summer or early fall, usually between August and October.

Starts Flowering

Skyblue aster typically starts flowering in late summer or early fall, usually between August and October.

Hardiness Map