New England Aster Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 'Kylie'
ABOUT
The 'Kylie' variety of the New England Aster is a striking perennial plant that is well-known for its vibrant floral display. This plant typically produces a profusion of daisy-like flowers that are a rich, deep purple or violet hue. Each flower consists of numerous petite, slender petals that radiate around a central core, which is typically golden yellow in color. This rich contrast of purple and yellow makes the plant particularly eye-catching during its blooming period. The leaves of the New England Aster 'Kylie' are medium green, with a lance-shaped appearance and a slightly serrated edge. They are arranged alternately along the stems, providing a dense and lush foliage that serves as a lush backdrop for the autumnal flowers. The stems are sturdy and upright, often with fine hairs, giving them a slightly rough texture to the touch. As a cultivar of the New England Aster, 'Kylie' shares the characteristic charm and robustness of this group of plants, making it a useful and aesthetic addition to gardens where it adds late-season color and interest. Despite the restriction, understanding that this plant forms a clumping habit and has a tendency to grow densely can give an indication of the plant's visual impact in a garden setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
New England Aster, Hairy Michaelmas Daisy, Michaelmas Daisy
Common names
Symphyotrichum novae-angliae, Aster novae-angliae, Aster novae-angliae var. roseus, Lasallea novae-angliae, Virgulus novae-angliae.
ToxicityTo humans
New England aster 'Kylie' is generally considered non-toxic to humans. Accidental ingestion of parts of this plant typically does not result in any serious symptoms or consequences. However, as with many plants, individual sensitivities can vary, and it's possible for someone to experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
To pets
New England aster 'Kylie' is also generally considered non-toxic to pets. Similar to its effects on humans, consuming parts of this plant is unlikely to result in any serious health issues for pets. Nonetheless, pets may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest a large amount of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
3-6 feet (0.91-1.83 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.61-0.91 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4-8
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 'Kylie' is known for attracting a variety of pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
- Garden Aesthetics: With its bright, showy flowers, the New England Aster adds vibrant colors to gardens from late summer into fall.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, it is generally easy to care for and does not require much water or attention.
- Drought Tolerance: It is relatively drought tolerant, making it suitable for gardens in drier climates once it has been established.
- Erosion Control: The plant's root system can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Wildlife Habitat: It provides a food source and habitat for wildlife, particularly during the fall when other food sources are scarce.
- Native Plant Benefits: As a native species, it is well adapted to local climates and ecosystems and supports local biodiversity.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 'Kylie', commonly known as New England Aster, can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, imparting colors ranging from muted greens to purples depending on the mordant used.
- The dried flowers of New England Aster can be incorporated into potpourri mixes for their color and to add a subtle floral aroma.
- New England Aster plants can be planted in outdoor learning environments as an educational tool for students studying botany and ecology.
- The stems of these plants can be used in basketry or as a base for wreaths and other rustic craft projects.
- When left to stand in the garden during winter, the seed heads provide visual interest and contrast in the landscape during the colder months.
- New England Aster leaves can be crushed and used as a natural insect repellent due to their aromatic properties.
- This plant can also be utilized in companion planting to attract beneficial insects that act as predators to garden pests.
- Artists can utilize the distinct form of New England Aster in still life photography or botanical illustration, capturing the unique structure of its blooms.
- The seeds of New England Aster, when harvested, can be used for seed art or mixed media art projects.
- Flower arrangers sometimes use the fresh or dried flowers of New England Aster for creating natural jewelry such as flower crowns or pendants.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe New England Aster is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe New England Aster is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Hardiness: Symphyotrichum novae-angliae, commonly known as the New England Aster, is known for its hardiness, symbolizing someone who is resilient and can endure tough conditions.
- Patience: It flowers in the late summer to fall, demonstrating patience, as it waits through most of the growing season to bloom.
- Devotion: Its long blooming period and tendency to return year after year can also represent devotion or enduring affection.
- Wisdom: In some traditions, asters are symbols of wisdom and a valuable life lesson, which is reflective in the plant's perennial nature and timing of blossoming in the lifecycle of the year.
- Elegance: The New England Aster is appreciated for its beautiful and dainty flowers, often symbolizing elegance and a graceful presence.
WaterNew England Aster 'Kylie' should be watered deeply to encourage root growth, providing about 1 inch of water per week. During the growing season, check the soil moisture frequently; it should be moist but not soaked. If you're using a garden hose, this would translate roughly to 1 to 1.5 gallons of water for a small plant or cluster. In times of drought or extreme heat, increase watering frequency to maintain consistent soil moisture. Reduce watering in the fall as the plant enters dormancy.
LightNew England Aster 'Kylie' thrives in full sunlight for optimal growth and flowering. It should be planted in a spot where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. If the plant does not receive enough light, it may become leggy and produce fewer flowers.
TemperatureNew England Aster 'Kylie' is hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures, but it flourishes in conditions between 60°F and 70°F. It can survive temperatures down to about -30°F and up to around 90°F. However, prolonged exposure to extremes outside of its ideal range can stress the plant.
PruningNew England Aster 'Kylie' should be pruned to shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and maintain its health. The best time to prune is early spring before new growth begins or just after the blooming period to remove spent flowers and encourage a second bloom. Cut back the plant by about one-third to one-half every few years to rejuvenate older plants.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe New England aster 'Kylie' flourishes in a soil mix that has good drainage and is rich in organic matter, such as a blend of loam, peat, and perlite or sand. The soil pH ideal for this plant ranges from 6.0 to 8.0. Ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged is crucial for the health of this aster variety.
RepottingThe New England aster 'Kylie' generally does not require frequent repotting and is often treated as a perennial that's left undisturbed in the garden. Repotting is typically only necessary if it outgrows its container or the soil becomes exhausted, which might be every 2-3 years for potted plants.
Humidity & MistingThe New England aster 'Kylie' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity conditions and does not require any special humidity adjustments. It thrives outdoors where it can receive natural ambient humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure ample light and keep soil moist for indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in sun, ensure good drainage, ample water.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 'Kylie', commonly known as the New England Aster 'Kylie', begins its life as a seed which germinates in spring, typically after experiencing a period of cold stratification which mimics winter conditions. Upon germination, the seedling emerges and develops a rosette of basal leaves. As the growing season progresses, the plant grows upwards, developing a sturdy stem and more leaves. In late summer to fall, it enters the flowering stage where numerous daisy-like purple flowers with yellow centers bloom, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After pollination, the flowers produce seeds which are dispersed by wind or wildlife. The plant dies back to the ground after frost, but the root system remains alive underground, enabling the plant to regrow the following spring, continuing its perennial life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
For Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 'Kylie', commonly known as New England Aster 'Kylie', the most popular method of propagation is by division. This is typically done in the spring as new growth becomes apparent. The gardener should carefully dig up an established plant and gently separate the clump into smaller sections, making sure each section has a portion of the root system. The divisions can then be replanted in well-prepared soil, spaced about 1 to 3 feet apart (30 to 90 centimeters) to allow for mature spread. Water the new plantings thoroughly to help establish their roots in their new location. Division not only helps propagate New England Asters but can also rejuvenate older plants that are becoming less vigorous.
![Marigold [PowerDaisy Tango]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fplants-admin.emdemapps.com%2Fimages%2Fplants%2F%2Fimages%2F604b567a0b366.png&w=640&q=75)
