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Description
Symphyotrichum Elliottii, also known as Elliott’s Aster, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant species is native to the eastern United States and grows well in moist to dry soils in full sun to partial shade. It typically blooms from late summer to fall, producing beautiful lavender-blue flowers that attract bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Symphyotrichum |
Appearance
Symphyotrichum Elliottii has a clumping habit and can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The leaves are lance-shaped, up to 6 inches long, and have a toothed margin. The flowers are daisy-like with a yellow center disk and lavender-blue petals, growing up to 1 inch in diameter. The plant blooms from late summer to fall, and the flowers can be harvested for cut arrangements.
Care Guide
To keep Symphyotrichum Elliottii healthy and thriving, follow these care tips:
Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during periods of drought. Avoid overwatering, as this plant prefers well-draining soil.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy growth and blooming.
Soil: Plant Symphyotrichum Elliottii in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal pH range for this plant is between 5.5 and 7.5.
Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. However, it can tolerate some shade if necessary.
Hardiness Zones: Symphyotrichum Elliottii can grow in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Symphyotrichum Elliottii is generally free from serious pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. To prevent these issues, make sure to plant the plant in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. In case of infestation, treat the plant with an appropriate fungicide or insecticide.
Habitat
Symphyotrichum Elliottii is native to the eastern United States, where it can be found in meadows, prairies, and open woodlands. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clay. This plant species is also drought-tolerant and can survive periods of dry weather.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Symphyotrichum Elliottii deer-resistant?
A: Yes, this plant is relatively deer-resistant, although it is not completely immune to deer browsing.
Q: How often should I fertilize Symphyotrichum Elliottii?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can I grow Symphyotrichum Elliottii in a container?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in a container as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its root system and the soil is well-draining.
Q: Can Symphyotrichum Elliottii be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, this plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or early summer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Symphyotrichum Elliottii:
- Symphyotrichum oblongifolium
- Symphyotrichum novae-angliae
- Symphyotrichum laeve
- Symphyotrichum ericoides
References
- “Symphyotrichum Elliottii (Elliott’s Aster).” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f210.
- “Symphyotrichum Elliottii.” Plant Finder, www.waltersgardens.com/plant/Symphyotrichum-Elliottii.
- “Symphyotrichum Elliottii.” North Carolina State University Extension, content.ces.ncsu.edu/symphyotrichum-elliottii.
