Pyrenean Aster Aster pyrenaeus 'Lutetia'
ABOUT
Aster pyrenaeus 'Lutetia', commonly referred to as the Pyrenean aster, is a flowering perennial known for its striking appearance. This plant possesses a lush foliage of green leaves that provide a complimentary backdrop to the prominent blooms. The leaves typically have a lanceolate shape, meaning they are longer than wide and taper to a point. The flowers are characterized by their daisy-like form, showcasing a central disc of short, tubular florets which are typically yellow, surrounded by a fringe of slender ray florets that are frequently a pale to medium shade of violet or pink. These blossoms form a composite arrangement, creating a vivid display that captures the eye. The Pyrenean aster's bloom period extends through late summer and well into autumn, providing a long-lasting spectacle of color in gardens. Its showy flowers not only add aesthetic value but also attract an array of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, thus contributing to the biodiversity of its environment. The plant demonstrates a clumping habit, growing in dense mounds that expand with time. The attractive features of the Pyrenean aster, combined with its adaptability to various soil types and conditions, make it a popular choice for ornamental gardens, borders, and wildflower meadows, where its beauty can be shown off to its full potential without emphasizing its specific dimensions.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Pyrenean Aster, Lutetia.
Common names
Aster pyrenaeus 'Lutetia'
ToxicityTo humans
The Aster pyrenaeus 'Lutetia', commonly referred to as Aster, is not widely known to be toxic to humans. Generally, asters are considered safe and are not associated with severe toxicity issues. However, it's always possible for individuals to experience mild allergic reactions or dermatitis from handling plants or consuming them, as sensitivity can vary from person to person. If ingested, stomach discomfort could occur in rare cases, although significant toxicity is unlikely.
To pets
Aster, including the variety Aster pyrenaeus 'Lutetia', is not typically recognized as poisonous to pets such as dogs and cats. These plants are usually considered non-toxic and safe around animals. Nonetheless, ingestion of plant material can potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset in some pets, manifesting as symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea due to the novelty and fiber content rather than toxicity. As with any non-food plant, it is advisable to prevent pets from consuming it in large quantities.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Pyrenean Daisy 'Lutetia' is valued for its attractive, light pink to lavender flowers that enhance the beauty of gardens and landscapes.
- Pollinator-Friendly: It attracts a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, which are crucial for the pollination of many plants.
- Ease of Care: This plant is known for being low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once established in the appropriate environment.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it shows a good level of tolerance to periods of drought, reducing the need for regular watering.
- Seasonal Interest: The plant blooms in late summer, providing color and interest in the garden during the latter part of the growing season.
- Versatility: Suitable for borders, rock gardens, and alpine houses, it offers various options for garden design.
- Cold Hardy: Pyrenean Daisy 'Lutetia' is cold-tolerant, allowing it to thrive in cooler climates and survive frosty conditions.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Aster pyrenaeus 'Lutetia', also known as Pyrenean aster, can be used in dried flower arrangements. The flowers retain their shape and color well when dried, adding a long-lasting decorative element to bouquets and displays.
- The Pyrenean aster can be utilized as a natural dye source. The petals can produce varying shades of colors when used to dye fabrics or paper.
- This plant can serve as a teaching tool in botany and horticulture classes. Its growth habits and characteristics can help students learn about plant biology and cultivation techniques.
- The Pyrenean aster can act as an indicator species in ecological studies due to its specific growing requirements, helping researchers assess the health of an ecosystem.
- The flowers can be used in the art of flower pressing, where their distinct shape and vivid colors can be preserved in crafts and decorations.
- In landscape design, the Pyrenean aster can be used to create naturalized areas that mimic wildflower meadows, providing aesthetic beauty and supporting local wildlife.
- The plant can be a source of inspiration for artists and photographers, who may capture its beauty in various forms of art and media.
- When planted in a garden, the Pyrenean aster can act as a natural pest deterrent, as some insects may avoid the area due to the plant's characteristics.
- The plant's structure can provide micro-habitats for small insects and fauna, contributing to biodiversity in gardens and parks.
- During educational nature walks or garden tours, the Pyrenean aster can serve as an example of a mountainous region plant adapting to different environments.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Aster is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Aster is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Patience and Anticipation: The Aster is often associated with patience because of its late bloom in the season, representing an anticipation for something significant and the rewards of waiting.
- Charm and Elegance: The dainty petals of the Aster 'Lutetia' are synonymous with a delicate beauty, which is why they symbolize charm and elegance in the language of flowers.
- Love and Daintiness: Asters are also linked to love and daintiness, their star-like shape associated with a reminder of the presence of love or the search for love.
- Wisdom: Reflecting the flower's star-shaped form, Asters are thought to represent wisdom, drawing a parallel to the guiding light of a star.
- Protection: In some folklore, Asters were believed to hold powers of protection, hence planting them could be seen as a protective charm.
WaterThe Pyrenees Daisy, or Aster pyrenaeus 'Lutetia', prefers consistent moisture but does not like to be waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically means 1-2 times per week during active growth periods, depending on weather conditions. Use approximately 1 gallon of water for an average-sized plant each time you water, ensuring you moisten the soil thoroughly but do not leave standing water. In the winter months or during dormancy, reduce watering frequency to once every two weeks, unless the plant is in very dry indoor air or in unusually warm winter conditions.
LightThe Pyrenees Daisy thrives in full sun exposure. It should be placed in a spot where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Adequate light is crucial for the plant to develop strong stems and prolific blooms. However, in very hot climates, the Aster may benefit from light afternoon shade to protect it from scorching heat.
TemperatureThe Pyrenees Daisy prefers temperate conditions and can tolerate a temperature range from 50 degrees Fahrenheit during the night to around 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. This plant is quite cold-hardy, and can survive temperatures down to approximately 20 degrees Fahrenheit, though it is happiest when not subjected to prolonged periods of freezing weather. The ideal temperature for promoting growth and flowering is within the middle of these ranges.
PruningPruning the Pyrenees Daisy involves deadheading spent flowers regularly to encourage further blooming and to maintain a tidy appearance. Additionally, cut back the plant in late fall or early spring by trimming stems to about 6 inches from the ground to promote vigorous growth and prevent woodiness. An annual or biannual schedule is typically sufficient to maintain the health and shape of the plant. The best time for major pruning is in the spring, before new growth starts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Pyrenean Aster (Aster pyrenaeus 'Lutetia') thrives best in a well-draining soil mix consisting of loam, compost, and sand or perlite. The ideal pH level for this soil mix should be between 5.8 and 6.5 to promote healthy growth and flowering.
RepottingPyrenean Aster often requires repotting every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and allow for continued root growth. Repot in spring before active growth starts.
Humidity & MistingPyrenean Asters prefer moderate humidity levels; maintaining ambient humidity around 50-60% is usually suitable for them.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright indirect light, ensure good airflow.
Outdoor
Full sun to light shade, protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
5-8 USDA
Life cycleThe Pyrenean Aster 'Lutetia' begins its life cycle as a seed, which, when sown in fertile, well-drained soil and exposed to the right conditions, germinates to produce a small seedling. The seedling then develops into a vegetative plant with a rosette of leaves close to the soil surface, from where it enters a period of growth and maturation. As the plant matures, it sends up flowering stalks that bear multiple daisy-like flowers, typically blooming in the summer through to autumn. After pollination, these flowers produce seeds which can be dispersed by wind or other means to start a new generation. During the winter or unfavorable conditions, the plant may die back to the ground, only to regrow from its root system the following spring. This perennial plant will continue this cycle for several years, until it eventually ages and its vitality declines.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Aster pyrenaeus 'Lutetia', commonly known as the Pyrenees Aster, can be effectively propagated through division, which is the most popular method for this perennial plant. The ideal time to carry out division is in early spring as the plant emerges from dormancy or in the fall, after flowering has ceased and the plant has entered a period of natural rest. To propagate by division, carefully dig up an established clump and gently separate it into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has a healthy root system and several shoots. These divisions can then be immediately replanted in a well-prepared bed, placed about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to allow for growth and air circulation. Water the new plantings thoroughly to help establish them in their new locations. With time and proper care, these divisions will flourish, forming new clumps that can be divided again in successive seasons.
