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Description
Symphyotrichum chilense, commonly known as Chilean aster, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is native to the western coast of North and South America. It has a branching stem and grows up to 2-3 feet in height. The plant blooms in late summer and fall, producing numerous small, daisy-like flowers with purple or blue petals and a yellow center. The plant has a long history of medicinal use in Native American cultures.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Symphyotrichum |
Appearance
Symphyotrichum chilense has a bushy and upright growth habit. The plant produces multiple stems that can grow up to 2-3 feet in height. Its leaves are alternate, lance-shaped, and have a coarse texture. The plant blooms in late summer and fall, producing numerous small, daisy-like flowers with purple or blue petals and a yellow center. The flowers are produced in clusters at the end of the stems.
Care Guide
Symphyotrichum chilense is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:- Water: The plant needs regular watering, especially during the growing season. Water the plant deeply once a week or whenever the soil feels dry to the touch.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. You can also fertilize the plant again in mid-summer to encourage more blooms.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Make sure the soil is not too wet, as this can lead to root rot.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not produce as many flowers.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Symphyotrichum chilense is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by the following:- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating to form on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from the leaves and stems. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat holes in the leaves and flowers. Use slug and snail bait to control them.
Habitat
Symphyotrichum chilense is native to the western coast of North and South America. It can be found growing in coastal scrub, grasslands, and open woods. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate salt spray and drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Symphyotrichum chilense be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough and has good drainage.
Q: How often should I fertilize Symphyotrichum chilense?
A: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. You can also fertilize the plant again in mid-summer to encourage more blooms.
Q: How much sunlight does Symphyotrichum chilense need?
A: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not produce as many flowers.
Q: Does Symphyotrichum chilense attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its nectar-rich flowers.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Symphyotrichum chilense:- Symphyotrichum novae-angliae (New England aster)- Symphyotrichum laeve (Smooth blue aster)- Symphyotrichum oblongifolium (Aromatic aster)- Symphyotrichum ericoides (Heath aster)
References
– “Symphyotrichum chilense” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280361&isprofile=1&basic=symphyotrichum- “Symphyotrichum chilense” Plant of the Week. University of Arizona. https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapai/anr/hort/byg/archive/symphyotrichumchilense.html- “Symphyotrichum chilense” Calflora. https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-calrecnum=8100- “Symphyotrichum chilense” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=SYCH2
