Blue wood aster Symphyotrichum cordifolium 'Chieftain'
ABOUT
The plant known as Chieftain heart-leaved aster is recognized for its lush foliage and attractive flowers. It boasts a dense cluster of heart-shaped leaves that have a rich green color and a somewhat toothed edge, which provides a full and hearty backdrop for its blooms. As the growing season progresses, the heart-leaved aster produces an abundance of tiny, daisy-like flowers. These blossoms typically come in shades of blue to violet, with a contrasting yellow center that adds a bright, eye-catching quality to the plant's overall appearance. The flowers are arrayed in clusters, creating a stunning display that can attract various pollinators. The stems of the heart-leaved aster are sturdy and green, sometimes taking on a slightly purplish tinge, supporting the weight of the leaves and the profusion of flower clusters. This combination of charming foliage and vivid floral arrangements makes the heart-leaved aster a popular choice among gardeners who seek to add a touch of color and natural beauty to their landscape without concern for the plant's dimensions.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Blue Wood Aster, Heart-leaved Aster, Cordifolium Chieftain.
Common names
Aster cordifolius, Aster cordifolius var. cordifolius, Aster cordifolius var. laevicaulis, Aster divaricatus, Aster floribundus, Aster laevicaulis, Aster sagittifolius var. cordifolius, Symphyotrichum cordifolium, Virgulus cordifolius.
ToxicityTo humans
The Heart-leaved Aster (Symphyotrichum cordifolium 'Chieftain') is not commonly known to be toxic to humans. Therefore, accidental ingestion of this plant typically does not result in poisoning or adverse symptoms. However, as with any plant, it is possible for individuals to have allergies or sensitivities, so caution should be exercised.
To pets
The Heart-leaved Aster (Symphyotrichum cordifolium 'Chieftain') is not considered toxic to pets. It is generally considered safe around animals such as dogs and cats, and ingestion of parts of this plant does not usually lead to poisoning or harmful symptoms in pets. Nonetheless, individual animals may have different sensitivities, so it is always best to prevent pets from ingesting plants.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators - Symphyotrichum cordifolium 'Chieftain', commonly known as blue wood aster, is attractive to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects which aid in pollination.
- Aesthetic appeal - This variety of aster adds visual interest to gardens with its delicate blue to violet flowers that bloom in the fall.
- Drought tolerance - Once established, blue wood aster exhibits good drought tolerance, making it suitable for xeriscaping or gardens with low water availability.
- Easy to grow - Blue wood aster is known for being easy to care for, requiring minimal maintenance once it has settled into its location.
- Naturalization - This plant can spread and naturalize in an area, filling in the space and potentially reducing the need for annual plantings.
- Wildlife habitat - Provides food and habitat for wildlife such as birds who feed on the seeds once the flowering season has concluded.
- Erosion control - Its root system can help stabilize soil, reducing soil erosion in areas where this could be a problem.
- Seasonal interest - Offers late-season blossoms that help extend the color display in gardens until late autumn.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The heart-leaved aster can be used as a natural dye for fabrics; by boiling the flowers or leaves, a range of soft colors can be extracted to color textiles.
- It can act as a natural insect repellent when the leaves are crushed and rubbed onto skin, though this is not its primary purpose and effectiveness may vary.
- This plant can be integrated into companion planting strategies in gardens to attract beneficial insects that prey on garden pests.
- Florists may use the dried flowers of heart-leaved aster in crafting everlasting bouquets and other dried flower arrangements.
- Heart-leaved aster can be used in educational settings for botanical studies due to its distinct morphological features.
- The plant has been utilized in landscape restoration projects to help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes.
- During autumn, the seeds of the heart-leaved aster provide food for birds and small mammals, hence it can be used in wildlife gardens to support local fauna.
- Its vibrant flowers can be floated in water bowls as a natural decoration for outdoor events or gatherings.
- The plant can be incorporated in eco-friendly crafts, such as making paper or pressed flower art, due to its decorative flowers and leaves.
- Photographers and artists may use heart-leaved aster as a subject to capture the beauty of native wildflowers and promote awareness for native plant species conservation.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Heart-leaved Aster is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Heart-leaved Aster is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Patience: Blue Wood Aster blossoms late in the season, symbolizing patience and the idea that good things come to those who wait.
- Endurance: Known for its ability to thrive in tough conditions, the Blue Wood Aster represents resilience and the ability to endure challenging situations.
- Wisdom: Its late bloom coincides with the traditional harvest time, a period associated with gathering the rewards of hard work and experience, tying it to wisdom.
- New Opportunities: As an autumn-flowering plant, Blue Wood Aster is linked to the closing of one cycle and the beginning of another, often associated with new opportunities.
- Tranquility: The soft blue hue of its petals is often synonymous with tranquility and calmness, suggesting a sense of peacefulness.
WaterFor the Blue Wood Aster, it is essential to maintain consistent moisture, especially during the first growing season to establish a deep and extensive root system. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions. In general, aim for about 1 inch of water per week, which translates to approximately 0.6 gallons per square yard of soil area. During hot and dry periods, you may need to water more frequently to prevent the soil from drying out completely, whereas in cooler or rainy periods, reduce the watering frequency accordingly.
LightThe Blue Wood Aster thrives best in full sun to partial shade. An ideal spot would receive unfiltered sunlight for at least 6 hours a day but also have some respite from the intense afternoon sun, particularly in regions with very hot summers. A location that provides morning sun and dappled afternoon shade would be optimal to encourage healthy growth and abundant flowering.
TemperatureThe Blue Wood Aster is hardy and can handle a wide temperature range, surviving minimum temperatures down to around -30° Fahrenheit. While it performs best in temperate conditions, the ideal growing temperature for this plant is between 60° and 70° Fahrenheit during the daytime. It is able to withstand summer heat as long as it is provided with adequate water.
PruningPruning the Blue Wood Aster is beneficial for maintaining its shape, encouraging bushier growth, and improving air circulation. In early spring, cut back the previous year's growth to about 4 inches to encourage new growth. After flowering, you can deadhead the spent blooms to potentially stimulate a second flush of flowers. A more thorough cutback can be done in late autumn or early winter after the plant has gone dormant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Blue Wood Aster, prefers well-draining soil enriched with organic matter and should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. A mixture of garden soil, compost, and a small amount of sand or perlite to improve drainage works well. The ideal soil pH for the Blue Wood Aster is between 5.6 and 7.5.
RepottingBlue Wood Aster does not typically require frequent repotting and can be done every 2-3 years or as necessary when the plant has outgrown its current container or the soil has become compacted or depleted of nutrients.
Humidity & MistingBlue Wood Aster thrives in average to high humidity conditions. It does not require any special humidity considerations when grown outdoors, as local ambient humidity is usually sufficient.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light, ensure well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade, well-draining soil, moderate water.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleBlue wood aster 'Chieftain' (Symphyotrichum cordifolium 'Chieftain') typically starts its life cycle as seedlings emerging in the spring, after the dispersal of seeds in the late fall. These seedlings develop into juvenile plants that form a rosette of foliage close to the ground. As the season progresses and the plant matures, it develops a branching pattern with heart-shaped leaves along the stems, moving towards the reproductive stage. During late summer to fall, the plant reaches full maturity and produces clusters of small, star-shaped blue to purple flowers with yellow centers that attract pollinators. After flowering, the plant sets seeds which are then dispersed by wind or wildlife. In winter, the above-ground parts of the plant die back, and it survives underground with its perennial root system until the next spring when the cycle begins anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Late winter to early spring
Symphyotrichum cordifolium 'Chieftain', commonly known as blue wood aster, is primarily propagated via division. The best time for dividing the plant is in early spring, as the new shoots begin to emerge. To divide, carefully lift the clump from the ground using a shovel or garden fork, then gently tease apart the roots and separate the clump into smaller sections. Each section should have a good amount of roots and a few shoots. Replant the divisions immediately, spacing them about 18 inches (approximately 46 centimeters) apart to allow room for growth. Ensure that the transplanted divisions are watered well to help establish them. This method of propagation is efficient for maintaining the vigor of the plant while also helping to control its spread in the garden.
