Mauve-flowered starwort (of gardens) Symphyotrichum turbinellum misapplied
ABOUT
S. turbinellum, in the form seen in cultivation, is an herbaceous perennial of bushy, open growth, with narrow, dark leaves and open sprays of orange-centred, lavender-blue daisies 2cm across
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Prairie Aster, Silky Aster, Turbinell Aster
Common names
Aster turbinellus, Lasallea turbinella, Virgulus turbinellus.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
2-4 feet [0.6-1.2 meters]
Spread
1-3 feet [0.3-0.9 meters]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: The plant is valued for its ability to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinator species, which is essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems and agriculture.
- Supports biodiversity: By providing food and habitat for various insects and animals, it plays a role in maintaining and enhancing biodiversity.
- Aesthetic appeal: With its attractive flowers, the plant contributes to the visual appeal of gardens and natural landscapes, making it popular for ornamental uses.
- Low maintenance: It is known for being a hardy plant that doesn't require much care, making it suitable for low-maintenance landscaping.
- Drought resistance: The plant is tolerant of drought conditions once established, which is advantageous in areas with water restrictions or low rainfall.
- Erosion control: It can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion, thanks to its root system, especially when planted in groups.
- Wildlife habitat: It offers shelter and breeding grounds for various species of wildlife, contributing to healthy local ecosystems.
- Seasonal interest: The plant provides color and interest in the landscape during its blooming season, which can be valuable for seasonal displays.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Prairie aster dye: The petals can be used to create a natural dye for textiles, providing a subtle color derived from a natural source.
- Erosion control: Planting prairie aster in areas susceptible to soil erosion can help stabilize the soil with its root system.
- Habitat restoration: Prairie aster can be included in seed mixes for prairie restoration projects to help recreate natural ecosystems.
- Wildlife garden addition: Adding prairie aster to a garden can attract native pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, enhancing biodiversity.
- Floral arrangements: The flowers can be used in fresh or dried floral arrangements to add natural beauty to homes and events.
- Photography subject: Prairie aster, with its attractive blooms, can be an excellent subject for nature and macro photography.
- Educational tool: Teachers can use prairie aster plants to educate students about native plant species and their role in local ecosystems.
- Artistic inspiration: Artists may draw inspiration from the striking appearance of prairie aster for paintings, drawings, and other art forms.
- Culinary garnish: Though not commonly consumed, the petals could potentially be used as an edible garnish for food presentation.
- Craft projects: Dried prairie aster flowers can be incorporated into craft projects such as wreaths, potpourri, or homemade paper.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Prairie Aster is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Prairie Aster is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Prairie Aster: New Beginnings - The prairie aster's propensity to thrive in tough conditions symbolizes a fresh start or turning over a new leaf, representing hope and the start of a new phase in life.
- Prairie Aster: Endurance and Strength - As a plant that can withstand harsh prairie environments, it symbolizes the ability to endure difficult times and remain strong.
- Prairie Aster: Innocence - Its delicate appearance associates it with purity and innocence, reminding people of childhood or simpler times.
- Prairie Aster: Patience - Prairies take time to grow and flourish, and as such, prairie asters symbolize the need for patience in order to achieve long-term success.
- Prairie Aster: Wishes - Similar to other asters, prairie asters are sometimes tied to the idea of wishes coming true, potentially because of their star-like shape reminiscent of a starry sky.
WaterThe Prairie Aster should be watered deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. During hot and dry periods, increase the frequency to twice a week, providing approximately 1-1.5 gallons of water for each plant. Overhead irrigation should be avoided to prevent leaf diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant. Decrease the amount of water in cooler or rainy weather to prevent overwatering and root rot.
LightPrairie Aster thrives in full sun, so it's best to plant it in a spot where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. It can also tolerate partial shade, but flowering may be reduced with less light. Ensure it's placed in a well-lit location but protected from the harsh afternoon sun in very hot climates.
TemperatureThe Prairie Aster can withstand a wide range of temperatures, but it performs best when the daytime temperature is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can survive minimum temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit, but it prefers not to be exposed to extreme cold for prolonged periods. The ideal conditions include moderate temperatures where frost is not a constant threat.
PruningPrune the Prairie Aster in the late winter or early spring before new growth starts to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Deadheading spent flowers during the growing season can promote more blooms. Cutting back the plant by one-third after the first flush of flowers can result in a second bloom period. Pruning should be done annually for the health and aesthetics of the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilPrairie aster thrives in well-draining, loamy soil enriched with organic matter. A soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is optimal for its growth.
RepottingPrairie aster typically does not require frequent repotting and can be done every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its pot.
Humidity & MistingThe prairie aster prefers average to dry ambient humidity conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade, with well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleSymphyotrichum turbinellum, commonly known as Prairie Aster, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in the spring, sprouting into a small seedling. The seedling develops into a vegetative plant, establishing a root system and producing leaves to gather sunlight. As the plant matures, it develops flowering stalks during late summer or early fall, which lead to the production of purple or occasionally white aster-like flowers attracting pollinators. Following pollination, the flowers produce fruits called achenes, each containing a seed that is dispersed by wind or wildlife. Throughout its life, the Prairie Aster endures seasonal changes and may enter a period of dormancy during the winter before resuming growth the following spring. This perennial plant can live multiple years, going through the cycle of flowering and seed production annually.
PropogationPropogation time
Early spring
Propogation: The most popular method of propagation for the prairie aster, otherwise known as Symphyotrichum turbinellum misapplied, is through division. This is often done in the spring when the plants are just beginning to show new growth. To divide the prairie aster, gardeners should carefully lift the clump from the ground and use a sharp spade or knife to split the clump into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has a portion of roots and shoots. These sections can then be immediately replanted into well-prepared soil at the same depth they were originally growing. The soil should be kept moist until the new divisions are established and show signs of new growth. This method of propagation allows for a quick increase in the number of plants and helps rejuvenate older clumps that may be declining in vigor.
