Contents
Description
Aster Frikartii Jungfrau, also known as Frikart’s Aster or Michaelmas Daisy, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is a hybrid of two species, A. amellus and A. thomsonii, and was first introduced by Swiss botanist Frikart in the early 1900s. Aster Frikartii Jungfrau is one of the most popular cultivars of the Aster Frikartii group, known for its long blooming season and beautiful lavender-blue flowers that resemble daisies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Aster |
Appearance
Aster Frikartii Jungfrau grows up to 24 inches tall and 18 inches wide, with a mounding habit. The leaves are lance-shaped and dark green in color, with a slightly hairy texture. The flowers bloom from mid-summer to early fall, and are about 2 inches in diameter. They have lavender-blue petals that surround a yellow center, and are held on strong stems that don’t require staking. The plant’s overall appearance is neat and tidy, making it an excellent choice for gardens and borders.
Care Guide
Aster Frikartii Jungfrau is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it does require some care to thrive. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overhead watering, as wet leaves can lead to fungal diseases.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to weak growth and fewer flowers.
- Soil: Aster Frikartii Jungfrau prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some light shade. Too much shade can lead to weak growth and fewer flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: Aster Frikartii Jungfrau is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aster Frikartii Jungfrau is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause distorted growth. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Slugs and Snails: These pests can eat the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use slug bait or diatomaceous earth to control them.
- Fungal Diseases: Wet leaves can lead to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. Avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation to prevent these diseases.
Habitat
Aster Frikartii Jungfrau is native to Europe and can be found growing in meadows, fields, and rocky areas. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun or partial shade. The plant is drought-tolerant and can grow in a variety of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I fertilize Aster Frikartii Jungfrau?
A: Fertilize the plant in spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Aster Frikartii Jungfrau tolerate shade?
A: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some light shade. Too much shade can lead to weak growth and fewer flowers.
Q: How tall does Aster Frikartii Jungfrau grow?
A: Aster Frikartii Jungfrau grows up to 24 inches tall.
Q: What hardiness zones is Aster Frikartii Jungfrau suitable for?
A: Aster Frikartii Jungfrau is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Related Plants
- Aster x frikartii ‘Mönch’
- Aster x frikartii ‘Wunder von Stäfa’
- Aster amellus ‘King George’
- Aster thomsonii
References
- “Aster x frikartii ‘Jungfrau’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 23, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=p670.
- “Aster Frikartii Jungfrau.” Garden Design Magazine. Accessed August 23, 2021. https://www.gardendesign.com/plants/aster-frikartii-jungfrau.html.
- “Aster Frikartii Jungfrau.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 23, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/68186/Aster-x-frikartii-Jungfrau/Details.
