Contents
Description
Symphyotrichum Drummondii Var. Texanum, commonly known as Texas Aster, is a perennial herbaceous plant from the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America and can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. This plant produces small, delicate flowers that are lavender or purple in color, appearing in late summer or fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Symphyotrichum |
Appearance
The Texas Aster has alternate, lanceolate leaves that are gray-green in color and hairy. The flowers are small, daisy-like, and have a yellow center disk with lavender or purple rays. They bloom in late summer or fall and are attractive to butterflies and bees. The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and has a spread of about 60 cm.
Care Guide
The Texas Aster prefers well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged. It requires full sun exposure and can tolerate partial shade. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, especially during hot, dry spells. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Texas Aster is generally resistant to pests and diseases but may be affected by spider mites, aphids, or powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, keep the plant well-watered, do not overcrowd, and remove any infected leaves or stems as soon as possible. Use a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to control pests.
Habitat
The Texas Aster is native to North America and can be found growing in prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. It is a popular plant in gardens and can be used in borders or as an accent plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Texas Aster a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, the Texas Aster is attractive to butterflies and bees.
Q: How often should I water my Texas Aster?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, especially during hot, dry spells.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Texas Aster?
A: The Texas Aster is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Q: What is the blooming season for the Texas Aster?
A: The Texas Aster blooms in late summer or fall.
Related Plants
- Symphyotrichum novae-angliae
- Symphyotrichum laeve
- Symphyotrichum oblongifolium
- Symphyotrichum patens
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of woody landscape plants: Their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Stipes Publishing.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Symphyotrichum drummondii var. texanum. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/plantfinder/plantfindersearch.aspx?taxonid=274981&isprofile=0&letter=s
- USDA. (2021). PLANTS Profile for Symphyotrichum drummondii var. texanum (Texas Aster). https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=SYDR2
