Asian Starwort Aster ageratoides 'Starshine' (PBR)
ABOUT
Aster 'Starshine' is an ornamental perennial that exhibits a lush and bushy appearance with a dense spread of foliage. The leaves of this aster are typically green, often with a slightly hairy surface that gives them a subtle texture. This foliage serves as the backdrop for its standout feature, the flowers, which bloom profusely in late summer to fall. The flowers themselves are composed of numerous small, tightly packed petals that radiate around a central, contrasting yellow disc. These petals are often a striking shade of purple, violet, or sometimes pink, offering a vivid pop of color in the garden. The blooms are daisy-like in form, inviting a casual yet vibrant aesthetic. Furthermore, 'Starshine' is known for its robustness and ability to withstand a range of garden conditions, making it a favored addition to borders, beds, and ornamental gardens for its decorative impact. Its flowers also tend to attract pollinators like butterflies, adding an extra dimension of life and movement to the space it inhabits.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Asian Aster, Eurybia ageratoides, Ageratoides Nahhanastar
Common names
Aster ageratoides 'Starshine' (PBR).
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Aster ageratoides 'Starshine' (PBR) is Asian Aster. There is limited information regarding the toxicity of Asian Aster to humans. Generally, members of the Aster genus are not known to be highly toxic to humans. However, it is always advisable to exercise caution and avoid ingesting plants that are not specifically identified as edible, as individual allergies or sensitivities can cause adverse reactions. If you suspect poisoning from any plant, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.
To pets
As for the toxicity of Asian Aster to pets, there is limited specific information available. In general, Asters are not listed among the plants commonly known to be toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. If your pet does ingest any part of the plant and you notice any symptoms of discomfort or illness, such as vomiting or diarrhea, you should contact your veterinarian for advice. It's always better to err on the side of caution and keep a close eye on your pets around plants.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
2 feet [60 cm]
Spread
2 feet [60 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Starshine aster can withstand periods of dryness, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Long Blooming Period: It produces flowers from late summer into fall, providing extended visual interest.
- Attracts Pollinators: Starshine aster is attractive to bees and butterflies, which can help pollinate surrounding plants.
- Low Maintenance: It doesn't require much care beyond occasional watering and pruning, making it suitable for busy gardeners.
- Hardy Nature: This plant is resistant to many diseases and pests, ensuring it remains robust with minimal intervention.
- Adaptable: It can grow in a variety of soil types, from clay to sandy soils, as long as they are well-draining.
- Winter Interest: The dried seed heads can provide visual interest in the winter garden.
- Landscape Versatility: Starshine aster can be used in borders, as ground cover, or in wildflower gardens for a naturalized look.
- Good Cut Flower: The blooms make for attractive arrangements in vases, lasting well when cut.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Prop: The vibrant flowers of Aster ageratoides 'Starshine' can be used by photographers as a natural backdrop or as a subject to enhance the aesthetic appeal of their photos.
- Art and Craft Material: The petals and leaves can be pressed and used in creating botanical art and crafts such as bookmarks, greeting cards, or in scrapbooking.
- Erosion Control: This plant can be used on slopes and banks for erosion control due to its spreading habit and ability to form a dense ground cover.
- Dye Production: The flowers and leaves may be used to produce natural dyes for fabrics or paper, yielding various shades of colors.
- Education: Aster ageratoides 'Starshine' can be planted in school gardens to help teach students about plant biology, ecology, and pollinator attraction.
- Thematic Gardens: It can be used as a thematic element in gardens, such as fairy gardens, due to its star-like blossoms and dense foliage.
- Insect Habitat: The plant provides a habitat and breeding ground for beneficial insects, including predatory insects that keep pest populations in control.
- Perfumery: While not commonly used for its scent, the subtle fragrance of Aster ageratoides 'Starshine' can be captured and used in creating custom perfumes.
- Culinary Decoration: The edible flowers can be used as a decorative, colorful garnish on salads and desserts, though they are not widely known for their taste.
- Event Decor: Due to its showy appearance, the blooms of Aster ageratoides 'Starshine' can be used for natural decor at events such as weddings or garden parties.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Aster is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Plant Symbolism- Patience: The Aster ageratoides 'Starshine', commonly known as "Starshine Aster," has a prolonged blooming period which symbolizes patience and the ability to wait for the right moment.
- Elegance: The dainty and refined appearance of its star-like flowers represents elegance and gracefulness in various cultures.
- Wisdom: In some traditions, asters are associated with wisdom due to their layered petals which can be seen as representing the accumulation of knowledge over time.
- Love: Asters have historically been indicative of love and affection. Giving someone a bouquet of these flowers could suggest your deep feelings for them.
- Faith: The Starshine Aster's persistent blooming can be seen as a symbol of faith and trust in the future, despite the challenges that may come.
WaterEurybia ageratoides, commonly known as Asian Aster, prefers evenly moist soil, so it should be watered thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. In general, this may mean watering approximately once a week, but this frequency may increase during hot, dry periods to twice a week. It's best to apply water directly to the soil rather than overhead to minimize wet foliage, which can lead to disease. Provide about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per plant each time you water, ensuring that the moisture penetrates the root zone. During the winter months, reduce watering as the plant goes into dormancy and its water needs decrease.
LightAsian Aster thrives best in full sun, which means it requires at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Though it can tolerate partial shade, too little light can lead to floppy growth and fewer flowers. Place it in a garden spot where it will receive the morning sun, which is less intense, but enough daylight to keep it healthy and promote vigorous blooming.
TemperatureAsian Aster is hardy and can typically withstand temperature drops down to -30°F, making it suitable for colder climates. It prefers growing in conditions where daytime temperatures are between 65°F and 75°F. The plant can tolerate summer temperatures up to 90°F without issue, but make sure to provide extra water during these hotter periods to prevent stress.
PruningPruning the Asian Aster is important to maintain its shape, encourage bushier growth, and promote more vigorous blooming. After the main flowering in fall, cut back the stems to just above the ground level to tidy up the plant and help prevent disease. Pruning is usually done after the first frost when the plant has gone dormant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilEurybia ageratoides 'Starshine' prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH of around 6.0 to 7.0. A mixture of garden soil, compost, and perlite or sand would create an ideal environment for this hardy perennial.
RepottingEurybia ageratoides 'Starshine', commonly known as Asian aster or Eurybia, typically doesn't need to be repotted often. Once it is established, repotting should be done only if it outgrows its container, which can occur every 2-3 years.
Humidity & MistingEurybia ageratoides 'Starshine' is adaptable to a wide range of humidity levels, as long as it is well-watered, making it suitable for various outdoor environments. It doesn't require specific humidity control for healthy growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Eurybia ageratoides 'Starshine' in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Plant Eurybia ageratoides 'Starshine' in partial to full sun.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleAster ageratoides 'Starshine', also known as Asian Starshine aster, begins its life cycle as a seed, which, when sown in fertile, well-draining soil and given the appropriate light and moisture, will germinate and sprout. The seedling then develops into a juvenile plant, with foliage and a root system expanding, requiring consistent moisture and occasional fertilization. In its vegetative stage, the plant grows rapidly, its leaves and stems maturing until it reaches the flowering stage, usually in late summer or fall, when it produces an abundance of star-shaped white or pale blue flowers. After pollination, typically by insects, the flowers will develop into seed heads, dispersing seeds for the next generation. During winter, in colder climates, the above-ground portion of the plant dies back while the roots remain dormant until the next growing season. With the return of favorable conditions in the spring, the plant resumes growth, completing its perennial cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Propogation: Aster ageratoides 'Starshine', commonly known as Asian aster, is commonly propagated through division, which is best performed in the spring. Division involves digging up an established clump of the plant and gently separating it into smaller sections, each with a portion of the root system and several shoots. Care should be taken to minimize root damage during the process. These separated sections can then be replanted at the same depth they were previously growing at, spaced approximately 12 to 18 inches (roughly 30 to 45 centimeters) apart to ensure adequate room for growth. After replanting, it is important to water the divisions thoroughly to help establish them in their new locations.
