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Description
Aster Amellus King George is a stunning perennial plant that produces abundant violet-blue flowers with yellow centers in late summer and early autumn. It is commonly known as Italian aster or Michaelmas daisy and is native to Europe. It belongs to the Asteraceae family, which is the largest family of flowering plants.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Aster |
Appearance
Aster Amellus King George grows up to 60 cm in height and 30 cm in width. Its foliage is dark green and lance-shaped, while its flowers have a daisy-like appearance with violet-blue petals and yellow centers. The flowers are about 2.5 cm in diameter and are borne in dense clusters at the top of the stems. This plant blooms in late summer and early autumn and is an excellent addition to any garden.
Care Guide
To ensure the healthy growth of Aster Amellus King George, it is essential to provide it with the right care. Here are some tips:- Water: This plant needs regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods. Make sure the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.- Soil: Aster Amellus King George prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral soil.- Sunlight: This plant requires full sun or partial shade to thrive. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers.- Hardiness Zones: Aster Amellus King George is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aster Amellus King George is generally a low-maintenance plant, but it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases, including:- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems. To prevent powdery mildew, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. To control spider mites, wash the foliage with a strong stream of water or apply insecticidal soap.- Slugs and snails: These pests can feed on the foliage and flowers of Aster Amellus King George. To control them, handpick or use slug bait.
Habitat
Aster Amellus King George is native to Europe and can be found growing in meadows, fields, and open woodlands. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate some shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Aster Amellus King George a good cut flower?
A: Yes, Aster Amellus King George makes an excellent cut flower and can last up to 10 days in a vase.
Q: Can I divide Aster Amellus King George?
A: Yes, you can divide Aster Amellus King George in early spring or after blooming. Make sure each division has several healthy shoots and roots.
Q: How often should I fertilize Aster Amellus King George?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.
Q: How do I propagate Aster Amellus King George?
A: You can propagate Aster Amellus King George by division or by taking stem cuttings in late spring or early summer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Aster Amellus King George:- Aster novae-angliae (New England Aster)- Aster laevis (Smooth Aster)- Aster x frikartii ‘Monch’ (Frikart’s Aster)- Aster tataricus (Tatarian Aster)- Aster amellus ‘Veilchenkonigin’ (Italian Aster)
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden: Aster amellus ‘King George’- Royal Horticultural Society: Aster amellus ‘King George’- The Spruce: Growing Aster Flowers: How to Plant, Grow, and Care for Aster Flowers
