White heath aster Symphyotrichum 'Ringdove' (ericoides hybrid)
ABOUT
The "Ringdove" is a type of aster that captivates attention with its unique and splendid floral display. The plant is adorned with a profusion of daisy-like flowers, which are small in size, with a central disc typically in shades of yellow that grab the eye. These central discs are encircled by delicate petals that can range in color from a soft, blush pink to purplish hues, radiating a gentle but striking contrast against the darker center. The foliage of the "Ringdove" aster adds to its overall beauty, with narrow, linear leaves that are often a deep green, creating a dense and bushy appearance. This dense foliage provides a lush background that further accentuates the vibrancy of the blooms. Branching stems emerge from the plant's base, spreading outward and creating a rounded form. The arrangement of the stems gives the plant a full and hearty look, often densely packed with the charming flowers that can cover the plant and create a spectacular display from late summer through fall. As the season progresses, the color of the flowers may deepen, adding richness to the visual effect of the "Ringdove" aster. The plant's overall appearance is one of cheerfulness and abundance, making it a popular choice for gardens seeking to add a burst of late-season color. Its blossoms not only provide aesthetic value but are also attractive to a variety of pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, which adds movement and life to the garden scene.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Ringdove Aster, White Heather Aster, Heath Aster.
Common names
Symphyotrichum 'Ringdove' (ericoides hybrid).
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Aster is not generally considered toxic to humans. However, like with many plants, some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to particular species within this genus. If an individual who is sensitive to Asters ingests parts of the plant, they may experience mild gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions, such as skin irritation or a rash. In the absence of substantial ingestion or a known plant-specific allergy, significant toxic consequences are unlikely.
To pets
The plant commonly known as Aster is not generally considered toxic to pets. It is not listed among the plants known for causing serious harm to pets such as cats and dogs. However, if a pet were to ingest a large amount of the plant, they might experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort, including vomiting or diarrhea, similar to how humans might react. It is always wise to monitor pets and prevent them from eating plants in general, as individual reactions can vary and some may have a sensitivity to this particular plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Symphyotrichum 'Ringdove' is known to attract butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects, which are essential for pollination.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, this aster variety is relatively drought-tolerant, making it ideal for low-maintenance and water-wise gardens.
- Visual Interest: With its profuse flowering, the plant adds aesthetic value and color to gardens from late summer to autumn.
- Wildlife Habitat: Provides food and shelter for wildlife, especially caterpillars of certain butterfly species that feed on asters.
- Erosion Control: Its root system helps hold the soil in place, which can prevent erosion in certain settings.
- Easy Propagation: Can be easily propagated from cuttings or division, allowing gardeners to expand their plantings with minimal investment.
- Long Blooming: It has a long flowering period which ensures prolonged garden interest.
- Garden Versatility: Can be used in a variety of garden settings, including borders, rock gardens, and wildflower meadows.
- Seasonal Interest: The plant's foliage provides texture and interest even when it is not in bloom.
- Low Maintenance: Generally requires minimal care once established, apart from occasional deadheading to promote further flowering.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Floral Arrangements: The attractive flowers of Aster 'Ringdove' can add an autumnal charm to fresh or dried floral arrangements.
- Photography Backdrop: With its dense flowers, it can serve as a beautiful natural backdrop for outdoor photography sessions.
- Teaching Tool: Horticulture educators can use this plant to demonstrate hybridization and plant breeding techniques to students.
- Garden Borders: Use Aster 'Ringdove' to create colorful borders along walkways or garden edges, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the landscape.
- Wildlife Habitat: Providing a source of nectar for bees and butterflies, this plant helps sustain local pollinator populations.
- Erosion Control: When planted in mass, Aster 'Ringdove' can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes.
- Maze or Labyrinth Gardens: Their dense and uniform growth can contribute to the structure of maze or labyrinth gardens.
- Art Inspiration: The vibrant blooms can be used as subject matter for paintings, drawings, and other forms of botanical art.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not widely known for culinary uses, the petals may add a special touch when used as an edible garnish for sophisticated dishes.
- Frost Tolerance Study: This plant could be utilized in studies to observe and record the effects of early frost on perennial plants.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Aster is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Aster is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Determination - The Symphyotrichum 'Ringdove', commonly known as the Aster, is a hardy plant that tends to bloom in the late fall when many other plants are fading, symbolizing determination and the ability to thrive in challenging conditions.
- Patience - As Asters often bloom in the last days of the growing season, they represent patience and the idea of beauty arriving in its own time.
- Elegance - With its daisy-like flowers, the Aster is often associated with refinement and an understated grace.
- Wisdom - In flower symbolism, Asters are sometimes linked to wisdom, perhaps because of their late-flowering nature and their association with the passing of time.
- Charm - The delicate petals and array of colors can represent a charming and delicate beauty.
WaterThe Aster 'Ringdove', a hybrid of the ericoides species, prefers evenly moist soil, so it should be watered regularly but not excessively. Aim to water the plant with about one inch of water per week, adjusting for rainfall. During the growing season and blooming time, monitor the moisture level closely and water whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. In warmer climates or during hot, dry spells, increasing the watering frequency can help prevent stress. It's important not to let the soil become waterlogged, so ensure good drainage is in place.
LightThe Aster 'Ringdove' thrives best in full sun to partial shade. For optimal growth and flowering, plant it in a location where it will receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The bright, indirect light of the afternoon is also suitable for this plant. Avoid deep shade, as inadequate light can lead to sparse blooms and a leggy growth habit.
TemperatureAster 'Ringdove' can withstand a range of temperatures but prefers moderate conditions. The plant will grow best when daytime temperatures are between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, while it can survive minimum temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit. It's important to protect the Aster 'Ringdove' from extreme cold and heat waves, as these conditions could damage the plant.
PruningPruning the Aster 'Ringdove' encourages a bushier growth habit and a more prolific blooming cycle. Prune the plant in early spring before new growth starts, removing any dead or damaged stems. Additionally, you can trim the stems back by one-third in early summer to promote denser growth and prevent flopping. After the blooming season, deadhead spent flowers to maintain the plant's appearance and prevent self-seeding.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Heath Aster should be well-drained and fertile, with a pH ranging from neutral to slightly acidic, ideally between 6.0 and 7.0. A mix incorporating loam, peat moss, and perlite or sand can provide the appropriate texture and nutrients for optimal growth.
RepottingHeath Asters should generally be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. However, as a garden perennial, they are more frequently divided and replanted outdoors rather than repotted in containers.
Humidity & MistingHeath Asters prefer moderate humidity levels but are quite adaptable and can tolerate the varying humidity conditions typically found outdoors. High humidity is not necessary for their growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Heath Aster in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Choose a sunny location for the Heath Aster and well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleSymphyotrichum 'Ringdove', commonly known as the Aster 'Ringdove', begins its life when the seeds germinate in early spring, given the right conditions of sunlight and moist soil. The young seedlings, initially composed of a small rosette of leaves, establish a root system and start vegetative growth. Through the growing season, stems elongate, and leaves mature, forming a bushy, herbaceous perennial. By late summer to early autumn, the Aster 'Ringdove' enters its flowering stage, producing numerous daisy-like flowers with yellow centers and pale pink to lilac petals. After pollination, typically by insects, the plant sets seeds which are distributed by wind, animals, or manual collection. In winter, the above-ground plant dies back, while the root system goes dormant until conditions are favorable again in spring, completing the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Symphyotrichum 'Ringdove', commonly known as a type of Aster, is often propagated through division, which is the most popular method for this plant. The best time to undertake this process is typically in the early spring as new growth is beginning to show. To propagate by division, carefully dig up an established clump and gently separate the root mass into smaller sections, making sure that each new section has a good portion of the root system along with several shoots. Replant the divisions immediately at the same depth they were growing before and water thoroughly to help establish the divisions. This will not only rejuvenate the parent plant by reducing overcrowding but also give rise to new plants that are genetic clones of the original, ensuring consistency in the garden.
