New York Aster Symphyotrichum novi-belgii 'Professor Anton Kippenberg'
ABOUT
The plant known commonly as New York Aster 'Professor Anton Kippenberg' is a visually appealing perennial with a bushy, mounded form. It bears a profusion of daisy-like flowers, typically sporting a purple hue with yellow centers that create a striking contrast. The flowers are small and grouped in clusters, which give the impression of a floral carpet when in full bloom. This variety blooms from late summer into fall, providing a delightful show of color when many other plants are fading. The foliage of 'Professor Anton Kippenberg' is equally attractive, with lance-shaped leaves that are green and can have a slightly hairy texture. The leaves are arranged neatly along the stems, which form a dense and lush appearance. As the plant matures, the stems can take on a slightly woody texture at the base. This New York Aster is popular among gardeners for its compact form and vibrant flowers that attract butterflies and other pollinators. It's a versatile option for borders, cottage gardens, or as a complement to other autumn-blooming plants in a mixed bed.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
New York Aster, Michaelmas Daisy
Common names
Aster novi-belgii 'Professor Anton Kippenberg', Aster novi-belgii var. litoreus, Aster lanceolatus var. hesperius, Symphyotrichum lanceolatum ssp. hesperium, Aster novi-belgii var. novi-belgii.
ToxicityTo humans
The New York aster is not commonly known to be toxic to humans. If any part of the plant is ingested, it is typically considered non-toxic and should not cause symptoms of poisoning. However, as with any plant, individual allergies and sensitivities can occur, so it is always best to avoid ingesting plant material that is not meant for consumption.
To pets
The New York aster is not considered toxic to pets. It should not cause symptoms of poisoning if ingested by animals such as dogs and cats. As with humans, it is generally advisable to discourage pets from eating plants, as individual animals may have different reactions or sensitivities, but the New York aster does not have a known toxicity to pets.
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
4-8
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The New York aster (Symphyotrichum novi-belgii 'Professor Anton Kippenberg') boasts attractive, daisy-like purple flowers that enhance garden beauty.
- Attracts Wildlife: This cultivar is known for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Low Maintenance: It is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal attention once established.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, the New York aster has good drought tolerance, making it suitable for xeriscaping or areas with water restrictions.
- Fall Interest: It blooms late in the season, providing color and interest in the garden when many other plants have finished flowering.
- Cold Hardy: This plant is capable of surviving in colder climates, making it a great addition to many temperate gardens.
- Versatility: It can be used in a variety of garden settings such as borders, wildflower gardens, and as cut flowers.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a photography subject, Symphyotrichum novi-belgii, commonly known as New York aster, often attracts photographers looking to capture its vibrant blue to violet flowers.
- In corsages or boutonnieres, New York aster can be used to add a splash of color to formal attire for events such as weddings or proms.
- New York aster petals can be used in the craft of flower pressing, where they retain color well and can be used for decorative purposes in crafts and art.
- The plant is sometimes used in natural dye production, providing shades of blue and purple from its petals.
- As a companion plant in the garden, New York aster can attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, benefiting the surrounding flora.
- It is incorporated into educational programs at schools or botanical gardens to teach students and visitors about native plant species and biodiversity.
- New York aster can be used in cut flower arrangements alongside other autumnal plants to provide long-lasting color indoors.
- Gardeners may use the dried stems and flower heads of New York aster to create rustic wreaths and other decorative items for home décor.
- In the culinary arts, petals of New York aster (ensuring they are free from pesticides) can be used as an edible garnish to add color to salads and desserts.
- New York aster can be instrumental in butterfly gardens, designed to provide a habitat for butterfly species and to support their lifecycle.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe New York aster is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe New York aster is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- New Beginnings: This plant, referred to as the New York Aster, often symbolizes new beginnings as it blooms in late summer to fall, reminding us of the cyclical nature of life and the fresh start each season brings.
- Elegance: With its dainty and colorful flowers, the New York Aster represents elegance and grace, often used in gardens and floral arrangements to subtly enhance beauty.
- Patience: It has a late blooming season, which can be seen to embody patience, signifying the virtue of waiting for the right moment to shine.
- Love and Affection: Aster flowers, in general, are commonly associated with love and affection. Giving someone a New York Aster could be a way to indicate your caring feelings towards them.
- Wisdom: The plant's association with the mythical Greek titan, Asteria, and its name being similar to the word 'star,' often lends itself to symbolize wisdom – a celestial connection to knowledge and guidance.
WaterThe New York aster needs consistent moisture, so water it when the top inch of soil feels dry. Generally, watering once a week with one to two gallons per plant should be sufficient, but this can vary with local weather conditions. During particularly hot or dry spells, more frequent watering may be necessary. Ensure that the water is applied directly to the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. Adjust the watering schedule as necessary during the growing season based on rainfall and temperature.
LightThe New York aster thrives in full sun conditions, where it receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. An ideal spot for this plant is in a garden area that has clear, unfiltered sunshine for most of the day. However, it can tolerate some light shade, especially in hotter climates where afternoons are intensely sunny.
TemperatureNew York aster prefers a temperature range between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth. It can survive minimum temperatures down to around 20°F and can tolerate summer highs up to about 90°F. These asters are hardy and adaptable, but they will flourish and produce more flowers when kept within their ideal temperature range.
PruningPrune the New York aster in late winter or early spring when new growth begins. This encourages a bushier plant with more flowers. Cut back the dead stems to just above the new growth, usually about 4 to 6 inches from ground level. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers during the blooming season, will promote continuous flowering. The plant may also be carefully thinned out to improve air circulation and reduce mildew issues.
CleaningAs needed
SoilNew York aster 'Professor Anton Kippenberg' prefers well-drained soil with a mix of loamy or sandy composition, enriched with organic matter. The ideal pH range for the soil is slightly acidic to neutral, around pH 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingNew York aster 'Professor Anton Kippenberg' should be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and allow space for root growth. It's best done in the early spring before new growth starts.
Humidity & MistingNew York aster 'Professor Anton Kippenberg' is not particularly humidity-sensitive but thrives best in moderate ambient humidity, typical of outdoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright indirect light, keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade, rich well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe New York Aster 'Professor Anton Kippenberg' begins its life cycle when its seeds germinate in early spring, given suitable moist and cool conditions. The seedlings then develop into vegetative plants with dense foliage, growing through spring and early summer. As the days become longer, the plants enter their flowering stage, usually in late summer to fall, producing numerous daisy-like purple flowers with yellow centers, which attract various pollinators. After blooming, the plants set seeds, which are dispersed by wind, allowing the cycle to begin anew. With the onset of winter, the above-ground parts of the plant die back while the roots remain dormant, conserving energy for the next growing season. Perennials by nature, they sprout back from the root system when conditions again become favorable in the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Summer to Autumn
Symphyotrichum novi-belgii 'Professor Anton Kippenberg', commonly known as the New York aster, is most effectively propagated by division. The best time to divide is in the spring, when the plant is emerging and the new growth can easily re-establish itself. To propagate by division, carefully dig up an established clump and use a sharp spade or knife to divide the root mass into smaller sections. Each section should have several shoots and a portion of the root system. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were originally growing, water them well, and maintain even moisture until they are established. This method allows for the quick multiplication of plants and helps rejuvenate older clumps that may have become woody or less productive.
