Aster Baccharoides

Description

Aster Baccharoides, commonly known as Blue Wood Aster, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to North America and can be found growing in woodland areas, meadows, and along roadsides. The plant produces a profusion of small, daisy-like blue flowers with yellow centers that bloom in late summer and early fall.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Blue Wood Aster grows up to 2-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide. The plant has a clumping habit and produces numerous stems that are covered in small, lance-shaped leaves with serrated edges. In late summer and early fall, the plant produces an abundance of small, daisy-like blue flowers with yellow centers that attract butterflies and bees. The flowers are held on branched stems that rise above the foliage and create a striking display.

Care Guide

Blue Wood Aster is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:

• Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
• Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Blue Wood Aster prefers partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, it may benefit from afternoon shade.
• Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in zones 3-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Blue Wood Aster is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew, which can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant.

Habitat

Blue Wood Aster is native to North America and can be found growing in woodland areas, meadows, and along roadsides. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and partial shade to full sun.

Question and Answer

• Q: Is Blue Wood Aster toxic to pets?
• A: No, Blue Wood Aster is not toxic to pets.
• Q: Can Blue Wood Aster tolerate drought?
• A: No, Blue Wood Aster prefers moist soil and may not tolerate prolonged periods of drought.
• Q: How often should I fertilize Blue Wood Aster?
• A: Fertilize the plant once a year in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
• Q: Can Blue Wood Aster grow in containers?
• A: Yes, Blue Wood Aster can grow in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives adequate moisture and sunlight.

Related Plants

• Aster Alpinus
• Aster Novae-Angliae
• Aster Novi-Belgii
• Aster Tataricus

References

• Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Aster baccharoides. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c326
• North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Aster baccharoides. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/aster-baccharoides/
• University of Wisconsin-Madison. (n.d.). Aster baccharoides. Retrieved from https://wimastergardener.org/article/aster-baccharoides/