New England Aster Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 'Marina Wolkonsky'
ABOUT
The plant known as the New England aster 'Marina Wolkonsky' is notable for its striking appearance with a dense profusion of daisy-like flowers. These blossoms feature deep purple petals that radiate around a central yellow disc, creating a vivid contrast that can catch anyone's eye. The effect is a rich tapestry of color that typically blooms during the fall season, providing a burst of warmth as the temperatures begin to drop. The vibrant purple petals are long, narrow, and slightly reflexed, giving each flower a frilled look that adds to its decorative appeal. The yellow center, composed of tiny disk florets, is prominent and acts as a magnet for various pollinators like butterflies and bees. The leaves are lance-shaped, with a rough texture and a dark green color that complements the purple flowers. These robust leaves cling to sturdy stems that branch to form a bushy clump with a generous spread of foliage and flowers. The New England aster 'Marina Wolkonsky' is truly a gem in the garden, bringing an eye-catching display of color that lasts until the first hard frost. Its sturdy nature allows it to stand tall without the need for staking, creating an impressive floral show that’s both wild and elegant.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
New England Aster, Hairy Michaelmas Daisy, Marina Wolkonsky Aster
Common names
Aster novae-angliae 'Marina Wolkonsky'.
ToxicityTo humans
New England aster 'Marina Wolkonsky' is not generally considered toxic to humans. Most people can handle and ingest parts of this plant without experiencing adverse effects. However, it is always possible for individuals to have allergic reactions or sensitivities to plants, so if any symptoms arise after handling or ingesting New England aster, such as skin irritation, gastrointestinal upset, or respiratory issues, medical attention should be sought.
To pets
New England aster 'Marina Wolkonsky' is also not known to be toxic to pets. Dogs, cats, and other domestic animals can typically interact with this plant without risk of poisoning. As with humans, individual animals may have sensitivities, so if a pet shows signs of distress such as vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in behavior after ingesting the plant, it's advisable to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
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: This plant is known for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which are vital for pollination.
- Easy to Grow: It is a hardy perennial that can adapt to a wide range of soils and conditions, making it easy for gardeners of all levels to grow.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it can tolerate periods of drought, making it suitable for xeriscaping or gardens in dry climates.
- Long Blooming: The New England Aster offers a long blooming season, often from late summer into fall, providing color when many other plants have finished blooming.
- Erosion Control: Its root system helps to stabilize the soil and can prevent erosion, particularly on slopes or in areas with loose soil.
- Garden Aesthetics: With its vibrant purple flowers, it is frequently used to enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Supports Wildlife: It provides nectar for pollinators and seeds for birds, contributing to the biodiversity and ecological health of the area.
- Winter Interest: The dried flower heads can add texture and interest to the winter garden, and provide seeds for birds.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The New England aster can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, yielding shades of pink, blue, or purple depending on the mordant used.
- As a teaching tool in botany classes, students can study the New England aster's structure and morphology to learn about aster family characteristics.
- Floral arrangements often include New England asters for their vibrant colors and long-lasting blooms in both fresh and dried forms.
- Butterfly gardens benefit from incorporating the New England aster as it attracts and sustains various species of butterflies and pollinators.
- The New England aster provides habitat and nesting material for birds, with its stems and foliage being used by some species.
- In eco-printing, leaves and flowers of the New England aster can be used to create unique patterns on paper or fabric.
- Arts and crafts projects for children can include the New England aster, using the blooms for flower pressing assignments.
- As part of a natural pest control strategy in gardens, New England asters can attract beneficial insects that feed on common garden pests.
- The plant is sometimes used in eco-friendly landscaping, as it is native and supports local ecosystems without needing excessive water or fertilizers.
- Photographers and artists may use the New England aster as a subject for their work due to its aesthetic appeal and the depth of color it adds to landscapes during the blooming season.
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- Enduring Love: Symphyotrichum novae-angliae, commonly known as New England Aster, often symbolizes a love that withstands the test of time, akin to its late bloom in the season.
- Faith: The aster is associated with the belief in the existence of magic and unseen forces, representative of faith in the unknown.
- Wisdom: In flower language, asters connote wisdom, a nod to their daisy-like appearance which is often connected with thoughtful insights and enlightenment.
- Elegance: The lush, richly hued petals of the New England Aster are emblematic of refinement and classic beauty.
- New Beginnings: Blooming in late summer and fall, asters signify new adventures or experiences, reflecting the cyclicality of nature and life.
WaterThe New England Aster 'Marina Wolkonsky' should be watered deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water each time. It is essential to avoid shallow watering, as deep watering encourages stronger root growth. During hot spells or drought, increase the frequency of watering to ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Adjust watering depending on rainfall, reducing water added if there is significant rainfall that week. Always check the top few inches of soil for dryness before watering again to avoid overwatering.
LightNew England Aster 'Marina Wolkonsky' thrives best in full sun conditions, meaning direct sunlight for at least 6 to 8 hours per day. Place the plant in a location where it can receive unfiltered morning and afternoon sun, as this will promote maximum flowering. Avoid areas that are shaded for the majority of the day, as insufficient light can result in fewer blooms and leggy growth.
TemperatureNew England Aster 'Marina Wolkonsky' is frost hardy and can tolerate minimum temperatures down to about 20°F. It grows best in temperate regions with summer temperatures ranging between 60°F and 80°F. The plant can withstand heat but requires more frequent watering in temperatures above 85°F.
PruningTo encourage bushier growth and more blossoms, prune New England Aster 'Marina Wolkonsky' in early summer by pinching back the tips of the stems. Additionally, deadheading spent flowers will promote continued blooming throughout the season. After the first hard frost, cut back the plant to about 2 to 3 inches above ground level to help prevent disease and prepare it for winter dormancy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe New England Aster 'Marina Wolkonsky' prefers well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. A good mix would be loamy garden soil, compost, and peat with a pH leaning towards slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0).
RepottingNew England Asters like 'Marina Wolkonsky' generally do not require frequent repotting and can be repotted every 2-3 years or when they outgrow their current container.
Humidity & MistingNew England Aster 'Marina Wolkonsky' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels but thrives best in moderate to high humidity environments without the need for specific humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, moist soil, and good air circulation.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, and space plants for air flow.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleSymphyotrichum novae-angliae 'Marina Wolkonsky', commonly known as the New England Aster 'Marina Wolkonsky', begins its life as a seed that germinates in early spring. Once germinated, the seedling emerges and establishes a root system while developing basal leaves. As the plant matures, it produces a sturdy stem and a lush foliage by midsummer, preparing for the flowering stage. Flowering typically occurs in late summer to fall, when the plant displays its vibrant purple blossoms that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After pollination, the flowers develop into seed heads, releasing seeds that can germinate the following spring to begin a new life cycle. In winter, the above-ground part of the plant dies back, while the root system remains alive to sprout again when conditions are favorable.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer to early autumn
The New England aster 'Marina Wolkonsky' is commonly propagated by division, a method recommended to be done in the spring. To propagate by division, the gardener should gently dig up an established clump of the plant after the last frost has passed, usually around late March to April depending on the local climate. Once the clump is lifted, it should be carefully separated into smaller sections, each with a fair amount of roots and shoots. These sections can then be replanted at the same depth they were growing previously, spaced about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to allow room for growth. Thorough watering after replanting helps establish the divisions. This method allows the quick development of new plants that will mature and flower sometimes even within the same growing season.
