Contents
Description
Aster Ericoides Golden Spray is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America and grows up to 3 feet tall. The plant has small golden-yellow flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall, making it a popular choice for autumn gardens. Its leaves are thin, needle-like, and grow in clusters along the stem.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Aster |
Appearance
Aster Ericoides Golden Spray has a bushy and compact growth habit with thin, needle-like leaves that grow in clusters along the stem. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and produces small golden-yellow flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall. The flowers have a daisy-like shape and are about 1 inch in diameter. The plant’s stems and leaves have a green color, and the flowers have a bright yellow color that fades to pale yellow as they age.
Care Guide
Aster Ericoides Golden Spray is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It is drought-tolerant and can grow in most soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil. The plant can tolerate partial shade but prefers full sun. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aster Ericoides Golden Spray is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, which can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering, and provide good air circulation around the plant. If powdery mildew does occur, treat the plant with a fungicide. The plant may also attract aphids and spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Aster Ericoides Golden Spray is native to North America and can be found in open woodlands, meadows, and along roadsides. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought and heat. The plant is commonly grown in gardens and landscapes as a border plant or in mass plantings.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Aster Ericoides Golden Spray a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Aster Ericoides Golden Spray is a great plant for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should I water Aster Ericoides Golden Spray?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.
Q: What is the best soil type for Aster Ericoides Golden Spray?
A: Aster Ericoides Golden Spray can grow in most soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil.
Q: Is Aster Ericoides Golden Spray deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Aster Ericoides Golden Spray is deer-resistant.
Related Plants
- Aster laevis
- Aster novae-angliae
- Aster oblongifolius
- Aster dumosus
- Aster tataricus
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of woody landscape plants: their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses (6th ed.). Champaign, IL: Stipes Publishing.
- Horticulture Magazine. (2015). Aster ericoides ‘Golden Spray’. Retrieved from https://www.hortmag.com/plants/plants-we-love/aster-ericoides-golden-spray
- North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Aster ericoides. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/aster-ericoides/
