October Skies Aster Symphyotrichum 'Ochtendgloren' (pilosum var pringlei hybrid)
ABOUT
The Symphyotrichum 'Ochtendgloren,' commonly known as the aster, features an alluring display of daisy-like flowers. These flowers come with a distinctive structure, showcasing petals that are narrow and elongated, radiating around a central core which often has a vibrant yellow color. The petals themselves generally bear a lovely purple-pink hue that adds to the charm of fall gardens when they bloom. The foliage of the aster is likewise a key part of its look, with leaves that bear a deep green shade, typically with a lance-shaped or elongated form. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stems, adding to the plant's overall bushy and dense appearance. The stems may be smooth or slightly hairy, and they have a sturdy quality that supports the abundance of flowers. As an ornamental plant, the aster is appreciated for its packed clusters of blooms and the textural contrast its foliage provides in a lush garden setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
October Skies Aster, Ochtendgloren Aster, Michaelmas Daisy, Fall Aster
Common names
Aster pilosus var. pringlei, Symphyotrichum pilosum var. pringlei.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Aster, specifically the cultivar Symphyotrichum 'Ochtendgloren', is not considered toxic to humans. There is no widely documented evidence of poisoning from ingesting parts of this plant. However, individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation if they come into contact with the plant's sap. As with all plants, it is advisable to avoid ingesting parts of the plant unless it is known to be safe to eat and to always handle plants with care if you have known allergies or sensitivities.
To pets
Aster, which includes the variety Symphyotrichum 'Ochtendgloren', is generally not regarded as a toxic plant to pets. There are no commonly reported cases of poisoning in pets after ingesting this plant. Nevertheless, each animal may react differently, and there's always a chance of a mild gastrointestinal upset if a pet ingests a substantial amount of the plant. If a pet shows signs of illness after consuming any part of the plant, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
3 feet [91 cm]
Spread
2 feet [60 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators - The Symphyotrichum 'Ochtendgloren', commonly known as the Aster, produces flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to the garden.
- Aesthetic appeal - With its beautiful late summer to fall blooms, it adds vibrant color and visual interest to garden landscapes.
- Drought tolerance - Once established, this Aster variety is relatively tolerant to drought, making it suitable for gardens in drier climates.
- Easy to grow - The plant is known for being easy to cultivate and maintain, ideal for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Cold hardiness - Asters are generally cold-hardy, allowing them to survive and thrive in cooler temperatures, which makes them suitable for a wide range of climates.
- Versatile landscaping - They can be used in a variety of landscaping designs including borders, container gardens, and as cut flowers for arrangements.
- Long blooming period - Offering a lengthy blooming period, from late summer into fall, they provide garden color when many other plants are starting to fade.
- Wildlife support - By providing nectar late in the season, they play an important role in supporting wildlife, especially as a food source for migrating butterflies and other insects.
- Mix and match potential - Asters can be mixed with other late-season bloomers to create diverse and attractive planting schemes.
- Rapid growth - The Aster 'Ochtendgloren' is known for its relatively quick growth, enabling gardeners to establish a flowering display within a short period of planting.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Aster 'Ochtendgloren' can be used in eco-friendly dye production. The petals and leaves may yield natural dyes for fabrics and crafts.
- The dried stems of Aster 'Ochtendgloren' can be woven into baskets or other artisanal crafts, employing traditional techniques.
- It's possible to utilize the fibrous material of Aster 'Ochtendgloren' in paper-making workshops as a sustainable source of fiber for handmade papers.
- Pressed flowers from Aster 'Ochtendgloren' can be used in decorative resin art, such as coasters, jewelry, or paperweights.
- The vibrant flowers of Aster 'Ochtendgloren' can serve as a natural colorant in potpourri mixes, contributing both hue and a subtle fragrance.
- The petals of Aster 'Ochtendgloren' can be used in the creation of flower mandalas or as part of natural landscape art installations.
- Educational programs can use Aster 'Ochtendgloren' to teach students about plant biology, pollination, and the importance of native species in garden ecosystems.
- Asters like 'Ochtendgloren' can be featured in floral photography and macro photography works to capture their intricate beauty.
- Garden designers may use Aster 'Ochtendgloren' as a living natural border for labyrinth designs in contemplative garden spaces.
- During festive seasons, the flowers of Aster 'Ochtendgloren' can be used as a biodegradable confetti alternative in eco-conscious celebrations.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Michaelmas Daisy is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Michaelmas Daisy is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Hope – The Symphyotrichum 'Ochtendgloren', commonly known as the Aster 'Ochtendgloren', often symbolizes hope due to its bright and star-shaped flowers that continue to bloom well into the late fall, providing a sense of optimism as the colder months approach.
- Patience – The Aster 'Ochtendgloren' represents patience, reflecting the plant's growth habits where it takes time to produce its beautiful blooms but rewards with a vibrant display.
- New Beginnings – Reflective of its tendency to be among the last flowers to bloom in the season, the Aster 'Ochtendgloren' often symbolizes fresh starts or new beginnings, signifying the cycle of life and the chance for renewal.
- Wisdom – Asters are sometimes associated with wisdom. The Aster 'Ochtendgloren', with its elegant form and presence that lasts until late in the season, may be seen as embodying the knowledge and experience gathered throughout the year.
- Faith – The perennial nature of the Aster 'Ochtendgloren' and its reliable yearly bloom can also be symbolic of faith and a reminder to keep faith through the changing seasons of life.
WaterFor the New England aster, which is the common name for Symphyotrichum 'Ochtendgloren', watering should be done thoroughly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out before re-watering. In growing season, this roughly translates to watering once a week with approximately 1 gallon of water per plant, depending on weather conditions. During hot, dry spells, more frequent watering may be required. Over winter or during periods of heavy rainfall, reduce the frequency to prevent waterlogging. Always water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.
LightNew England aster, or Symphyotrichum 'Ochtendgloren', thrives in full sun conditions but can tolerate partial shade. The best spot for this plant is one where it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight a day. Dappled afternoon shade can be beneficial in very hot climates to prevent scorching.
TemperatureThe ideal temperature range for a New England aster is between 60°F and 75°F, although it can tolerate temperatures down to freezing and up to the mid-80s Fahrenheit. These asters are frost-hardy and can survive short periods of colder weather down to about 20°F but not prolonged freezing temperatures.
PruningPrune New England aster to improve air circulation, shape the plant, and encourage vigorous growth and flowering. Cut back stems by one-third in early summer to prevent legginess and promote bushier growth. After flowering, prune again by cutting off spent flowers and any dead or damaged stems. Pruning is best done just after blooming or in early spring before new growth starts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Smooth Aster (Symphyotrichum 'Ochtendgloren') is well-draining loam enriched with compost. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. A mixture of two parts garden soil, one part compost, and one part sand or perlite would be ideal.
RepottingSmooth Aster should typically be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and encourage healthy growth. It's best to repot in the early spring before new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingSmooth Aster thrives in average humidity conditions. It does not require special humidity levels and is quite adaptable to the ambient humidity found in most outdoor garden settings.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and water moderately.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade, in well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleThe Symphyotrichum 'Ochtendgloren', commonly known as the Aster 'Ochtendgloren', begins its life cycle as a seed, which upon finding favorable conditions of temperature, moisture, and light, germinates to produce a small seedling. As the seedling matures, it develops into a herbaceous perennial plant, forming a clump with lance-shaped, green leaves and a sturdy stem. During the growing season, typically in late summer to autumn, the plant enters its flowering stage, where it produces numerous daisy-like flowers with yellow centers and pale lavender to pink petals. After pollination, typically by bees or butterflies, the flowers produce small, dry fruits called achenes, which contain the seeds for the next generation of plants. During winter, the above-ground part of the plant dies back, while the root system remains alive underground, allowing the plant to survive the cold season. As temperatures warm again in spring, the plant resumes growth from the root stock, beginning its life cycle anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer to early fall
Symphyotrichum 'Ochtendgloren', also known as Aster 'Ochtendgloren', is best propagated by division, a method commonly used for many perennials. This process is typically done in the early spring or after the flowering season in the fall. To propagate by division, one should carefully dig up the parent plant, making sure to keep a good amount of soil around the root ball. The plant should then be gently teased apart into smaller sections, each with a healthy portion of roots and several shoots. These sections can then be immediately replanted in well-prepared soil, spaced at least 18 inches (about 45 centimeters) apart to allow room for growth. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to aid in their establishment. This method ensures that the offspring plants will bear the same characteristics as the parent and is generally straightforward and successful.
