Kalimeris incisa 'Madiva'
ABOUT
The Kalimeris incisa 'Madiva', commonly known as the Japanese aster, is a perennial plant that is notable for its attractive floral display and its lush foliage. The Japanese aster produces an abundance of daisy-like flowers that typically appear from early to late summer. The flower heads are charming, with delicate lavender to pale pink ray florets that encircle a central disc of golden yellow florets. The petals are elongated and slightly fringed at the tips, which adds to the softness of the overall look. The blooms are carried on slender yet sturdy stems that rise above the foliage, creating an airy feel in the garden. Its leaves are mid-green, narrow, and serrated, forming a neat, bushy clump that serves as an attractive green backdrop for the flowers. The Japanese aster is a favored choice for mixed borders and cottage gardens due to its undemanding nature and the beautiful contrast its flowers offer against the greenery.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Japanese Aster, Cutleaf Daisy
Common names
Asteromoea mongolica, Kalimeris mongolica.
ToxicityTo humans
There is generally little information available specifically about the toxicity of Kalimeris incisa 'Madiva', also commonly known as Japanese aster, to humans. This plant is not typically known for being poisonous, and there are no widely recognized symptoms of poisoning from ingesting it. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities can occur, and caution is advised when handling or potentially ingesting any plant material with which one is not familiar.
To pets
Similar to its effects on humans, there is limited information available on the toxicity of Japanese aster to pets. It is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to pets such as dogs and cats. While it is not expected to be particularly harmful, ingestion of any plant can potentially cause gastrointestinal upset in pets, so it is always prudent to prevent pets from consuming plants that are not intended for them. If you suspect your pet has ingested Japanese aster and is exhibiting unusual symptoms, it is best to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Lavender
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Easy to grow: Kalimeris incisa 'Madiva' is not demanding and can thrive in a range of garden conditions.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, it can tolerate periods of drought, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Long blooming period: The Japanese aster offers a lengthy display of flowers from early summer to fall.
- Attracts pollinators: Its daisy-like flowers attract butterflies and bees, supporting biodiversity.
- Low maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, with no need for deadheading to promote blooming.
- Resilience to pests and diseases: It is generally resistant to common garden pests and diseases.
- Cold hardy: It can survive in colder climates, making it a versatile choice for gardens in various zones.
- Soil adaptability: The Japanese aster adapts well to different soil types, although it prefers well-drained soil.
- Compact size: With its modest size, it is an excellent choice for borders, small gardens, and containers.
- Aesthetic appeal: The delicate flowers and foliage add texture and color to garden compositions and floral arrangements.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Kalimeris incisa 'Madiva', commonly known as Japanese aster, can be used in floral arrangements for its attractive, daisy-like flowers, adding a touch of elegance and charm to bouquets and centerpieces.
- In the garden, Japanese aster serves as an excellent companion plant for late-season bloomers, helping to extend the flowering season and create continuous interest.
- Japanese aster can be utilized as a natural dye for fabrics, offering a range of colors depending on the mordant used in the dyeing process.
- The plant's leaves can be crushed and used as a natural insect repellent to protect other plants in the garden.
- Its long-lasting blooms make Japanese aster suitable for dried flower crafts, such as wreaths or dried arrangements, where their color and form can be preserved.
- Japanese aster is great for attracting beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, contributing to pollinator gardens and supporting local ecosystems.
- The stems and foliage of Japanese aster can be included in compost piles to add green matter and diversity to the compost mix.
- When planted as ground cover, Japanese aster prevents soil erosion by stabilizing loose soil with its root system.
- Japanese aster can be incorporated into educational activities, such as plant identification workshops or botanical illustration classes, because of its distinct morphology.
- The flowers of Japanese aster can be pressed and used in craft projects like handmade paper, bookmarks, or botanical art pieces.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Japanese aster is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Japanese aster is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Kalimeris incisa 'Madiva', commonly known as the Japanese aster, is known for its ability to adapt to different soil conditions and climates, symbolizing the capacity to thrive despite challenges.
- Simplicity: With its modest and dainty flowers, the Japanese aster is often associated with the appreciation of simple, understated beauty.
- Peace: The delicate blooms of the Japanese aster can represent peace and serenity, offering a sense of calmness to those who encounter it.
- Harmony: Given its ease of growth alongside other plants, the Japanese aster can symbolize living in harmony with one’s surroundings and with others.
- Festivity: Blooming in late summer to fall, the Japanese aster is often associated with the festive joy of the harvest season.
WaterThe Japanese aster should be watered deeply once a week, providing thorough moisture to the soil. During hot and dry periods, increase watering frequency to twice a week to maintain even soil moisture. Ensure that the plant receives approximately 1 to 1.5 inches of water each week, whether from rainfall or manual watering. Allow the topsoil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent overwatering and root rot. Adjust the amount of water according to the season and the plant's growth stage, reducing it in the cooler months when the plant is not actively growing.
LightJapanese asters thrive in full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot for planting them would be a location where they can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. However, in regions with very hot summers, it is beneficial to provide some afternoon shade to protect the plants from excessive heat.
TemperatureThe Japanese aster prefers temperate climates and can tolerate a range of temperatures. It can survive minimum temperatures down to around 32 degrees Fahrenheit and is hardy up to USDA zone 5. The ideal temperature range for thriving growth is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure that the plant is protected from extreme cold or frost.
PruningPrune the Japanese aster to maintain shape, encourage bushy growth, and remove spent blooms. Light pruning can be done throughout the growing season to remove dead or damaged stems and to deadhead flowers. The best time for a more thorough pruning is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cutting back the plant by one-third every year can help stimulate healthy new growth and improve flowering.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Japanese Aster 'Madiva' prefers a well-draining, loamy soil mix with added organic matter to retain moisture. A neutral to slightly acidic pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal for optimal growth.
RepottingJapanese Aster 'Madiva' doesn't require frequent repotting; it can be done every 2-3 years or when you notice the plant outgrowing its pot.
Humidity & MistingJapanese Aster 'Madiva' is adaptable to a range of humidity conditions and thrives in the ambient outdoor humidity without needing any special adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright indirect light, and keep the soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant in partial sun, keep soil well-drained, and space them apart.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleKalimeris incisa 'Madiva', commonly known as the Japanese aster, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in the spring when temperatures warm. Emerging as seedlings, the plants begin to develop a rosette of leaves at the soil level. As the plant matures, it forms a clumping mound with numerous stems that lengthen and branch out. Throughout the summer months, the Japanese aster produces daisy-like flowers with a yellow center and purple, blue, or white petals which attract pollinators. After flowering, the plant sets seed which can be dispersed for future germination, completing its reproductive cycle. With the arrival of autumn and colder weather, the plant dies back, retreating into dormancy as a root system or by leaving seeds in the soil until the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Kalimeris incisa 'Madiva', commonly known as the Japanese Aster, is often propagated through division which is ideally done in the spring or early fall. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the parent plant ensuring to get as much of the root system as possible. Gently pull or cut the plant into smaller sections, making sure each section has a part of the root system. Replant the divisions promptly, keeping them at the same depth they were growing previously, space them about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them. This method is effective for increasing your stock of Japanese Aster and helps rejuvenate older plants that might have become woody or less vigorous with age.
