Species hairy aster
white flowers with brown-yellow center, yellow-brown buds, yellow-green sepals, lime-green leaves and stems

hairy aster

Symphyotrichum pilosum

The hairy aster (Symphyotrichum pilosum) is a sturdy plant species with short-stalked deep-lobed deep-green leaves. It produces heads of brilliant yellow flowers from late summer to autumn. The flowers of the plant are flat-topped and can reach a diameter of up to 10 cm. The daisy-like florets are 5 to 10 mm across, and have a reddish-purple center. A. pilosum is juicy and makes a great addition to wild salads and herbal teas. It is drought tolerant and will thrive in a sunny, dry spot; however, it grows best when watered regularly. The attractive foliage and bright flowers of the hairy aster make it an excellent choice for a low-maintenance garden addition.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Root Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

White rays and pale yellow center discs Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Hairy aster will need regular watering to keep its soil moist. Water it when the top inch of soil is dry; check this with your finger. If the soil is still moist, it doesn’t need more water. Provide water directly to the soil at the base of the plant, as this prevents foliage from becoming too wet and promotes evaporation from the soil. During the summer months, hairy aster may need to be watered 1 to 2 times per week. During the cooler months, water every 10 to 14 days. Avoid water-logging the soil, and don't allow the plant to sit in standing water. As a general rule, if the plant looks droopy, it may need water.

sunlight

Hairy aster (Symphyotrichum pilosum) thrives in full sun and generally does best in direct sunlight for at least 6 hours each day. It prefers morning sunlight, when the rays are less intense, to avoid wilting and prevent it from becoming too hot. During the hottest times of day, it's wise to provide some shade for the plant to protect it from scorching, although it will tolerate more sun in cooler climates. It can also tolerate some shade, but may not produce as much blooms in reduced light.

pruning

Hairy aster (Symphyotrichum pilosum) should be pruned in early summer, after the spring bloom, when the plant has completed blooming. Pruning consists of cutting back the stems to just above the base and removing dead foliage. The stems should be cut back about 1-third of their original size. This will encourage the plant to produce fresh flowers and reduce the risk of any disease. To maintain a tidy appearance, pruning may need to be repeated multiple times throughout the growing season.

Season

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

Hairy aster typically starts flowering in late summer or early fall, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

Hairy aster typically starts flowering in late summer or early fall, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map