New York aster Symphyotrichum novi-belgii 'Rosenwichtel'
ABOUT
The Symphyotrichum novi-belgii 'Rosenwichtel', commonly known as the New York aster 'Rosenwichtel', is a perennial flower that boasts a charming aesthetic. It has a robust and bushy growth habit, creating a dense mat of foliage. The leaves are lance-shaped, fresh green in color, and can sometimes have a slightly hairy texture. It is the flowers of 'Rosenwichtel', however, that truly captivate the eye. These blooms are small but plentiful, covering the plant in a profusion of color. The individual flowers are daisy-like in form, with a central disk surrounded by delicate rays. The color of the ray florets is a vibrant pink to rose hue, which is particularly enchanting in a garden setting. The central disc florets are generally a deeper pink to purplish color, creating a lovely contrast against the lighter petals. The overall effect is a carpet of rosy blooms that can bring an enchanting vibrancy to any landscape during its flowering season.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
New York Aster, Michaelmas Daisy
Common names
Aster novi-belgii 'Rosenwichtel'
ToxicityTo humans
The New York aster (Symphyotrichum novi-belgii 'Rosenwichtel') is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There is no widespread evidence to suggest that it contains any harmful toxins that would cause poisoning upon ingestion. However, it is always advisable to avoid eating ornamental plants as they are not intended for human consumption, and individuals may have varying sensitivities that could lead to an allergic reaction.
To pets
The New York aster (Symphyotrichum novi-belgii 'Rosenwichtel') is also generally considered non-toxic to pets. It is not known to contain any substances that are harmful to dogs or cats if ingested. Despite its non-toxic status, it is still recommended to prevent pets from consuming plant material to avoid any potential gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions that could occur due to individual sensitivities.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
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- Attracts Pollinators: Symphyotrichum novi-belgii 'Rosenwichtel', commonly known as New York aster, is known for attracting bees and butterflies, which help pollinate surrounding plants.
- Easy to Grow: It is a hardy perennial that's relatively easy to cultivate and maintain in a variety of soil types and conditions.
- Landscape Aesthetics: The plant adds vibrant color, generally in shades of pink and purple, to gardens and landscapes in the late summer and fall.
- Erosion Control: Its root system can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion, especially on slopes or in garden borders.
- Biodiversity Support: By providing nectar and habitat, it supports local biodiversity, contributing to the health of the ecosystem.
- Garden Design: The compact growth habit of 'Rosenwichtel' makes it suitable for small gardens, borders, and containers.
- Extended Blooming: It has a long blooming season, often from late summer to mid-fall, providing color when many other plants have finished flowering.
- Wildlife Friendly: The New York aster can be part of a wildlife-friendly garden, offering shelter and food to a variety of creatures besides pollinators.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it has decent drought tolerance, making it suitable for xeriscaping or gardens with less frequent watering.
- Cold Hardy: It can survive in cold climates, making it a good choice for gardeners in regions with harsh winters.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Crafts and Dyeing: The petals of the New York aster can be used to make dyes for textiles, offering hues from the flowers' natural pigmentation.
- Ecosystem Support: They provide nectar and pollen for a variety of insects, including bees and butterflies, which are important pollinators in many ecosystems.
- Photography: Their vivid colors and abundant blooms make them perfect subjects for garden photographers and those looking to capture the essence of fall.
- Culinary Decoration: The flowers can be used as a decorative garnish for salads and desserts, though they are not commonly eaten.
- Education: Can be used in educational settings like schools or nature programs to teach about plant life cycles and horticulture.
- Seasonal Celebrations: In autumn-themed events and decorations, their flowers can add a vibrant splash of natural color.
- Art Supplies: The dried flower heads can be used in art projects or for creating floral arrangements and potpourri.
- Green Roofs: They can be planted on green roofs to attract pollinators and increase biodiversity in urban areas.
- Garden Companions: They can help deter certain pests when planted alongside vegetables and can therefore be a part of a pest management strategy in organic gardening.
- Memory Gardens: Often used as a symbol of remembrance, they can be planted in memorial gardens or given in memory of a loved one.
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- Hope: As a member of the Aster family, Symphyotrichum novi-belgii, commonly known as New York Aster, often symbolizes hope due to its late blooming period, bringing color and vibrancy when many other plants are fading at the end of the growing season.
- Patience: The New York Aster takes time to bloom, reminding us that patience can lead to beautiful outcomes.
- Love: In flower language, asters are also associated with love and daintiness, celebrating deep affection, charm, and a reminder of loved ones.
- Variety: With many varietals and colors, such as 'Rosenwichtel', which typically has vibrant pink flowers, New York Asters embody diversity and the multitude of life's experiences.
WaterThe New York Aster 'Rosenwichtel' prefers to be watered regularly to keep its soil evenly moist but not saturated. The frequency of watering should be adjusted based on weather conditions, but generally, once a week is adequate. During the active growing season in spring and summer, it’s important to ensure that the plant receives about one inch of water (which is roughly 0.623 gallons) weekly, either from rainfall or manual watering. During the winter months or cooler weather, reduce watering since Asters need less water as they go dormant. If the leaves are wilting or the top inch of soil is dry, that's an indication that the plant needs water.
LightThe New York Aster 'Rosenwichtel' thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. Ideally, it should be positioned in a spot where it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. If the plant is placed in too much shade, it may not bloom as prolifically. However, in hotter climates, protection from the intense afternoon sun can help prevent scorching of the leaves.
TemperatureThe New York Aster 'Rosenwichtel' can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but grows best between 60°F and 75°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to around 20°F, making it suitable for cooler climates. On the hotter end, it can tolerate temperatures up to about 85°F, but it's important to provide extra water during hotter spells to prevent stress.
PruningNew York Aster 'Rosenwichtel' benefits from pruning to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. The best time to prune is in early spring, just as new growth is beginning to show. Cut back the previous year’s stems to about 4-6 inches above the ground. Additionally, deadhead spent flowers regularly during the blooming season to extend blooming and prevent self-seeding if desired.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the New York Aster 'Rosenwichtel' is well-draining, loamy soil enriched with organic matter. Ideal soil pH should range between 6.0 and 8.0 to support healthy growth.
RepottingNew York Aster 'Rosenwichtel' is typically not repotted since it is an outdoor perennial, but dividing clumps every 2-4 years will rejuvenate the plant and manage its size.
Humidity & MistingNew York Aster 'Rosenwichtel' thrives in average outdoor humidity conditions; it does not require specific humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, cool temps, and good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade, and well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleNew York Aster 'Rosenwichtel' begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates when soil temperatures and moisture levels are suitable, typically in the spring. The seedling stage follows germination, during which roots, shoots, and leaves develop, allowing the plant to photosynthesize and grow. As the plant matures during the vegetative stage, it forms a bushy structure with several stems and larger leaves, preparing for flowering. The flowering stage usually occurs in late summer to fall, characterized by the blooming of numerous daisy-like flowers with pink to purple petals and yellow centers, which attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers will develop into fruit, technically achenes, containing seeds that can be dispersed to initiate new life cycles. Finally, the plant enters a period of senescence after seed dispersal, where it may die back, especially in colder climates, or it may return the following spring if the conditions are favorable.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Early Summer
The New York Aster 'Rosenwichtel', a variety of Symphyotrichum novi-belgii, is commonly propagated through division. This is best done in the early spring as the new shoots are emerging from the soil. To propagate by division, carefully lift the plant from the soil with a shovel, ensuring a generous amount of roots and soil are attached. Gently separate the clumps into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a healthy root system. These divisions can then be immediately replanted into prepared soil, spacing them about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to allow room for growth. Adequate watering after replanting is crucial to ensure the divisions establish well. Division not only helps propagate new plants but also rejuvenates older clumps that may have become woody or less vigorous.
