Aster Kylie

Description

The Aster Kylie, also known as Symphyotrichum novae-angliae ‘Kylie’, is a popular perennial flower that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is known for its showy, daisy-like flowers that bloom in late summer and fall, providing a splash of color to any garden. This plant is native to North America and is commonly found in the eastern and central parts of the continent.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Aster Kylie grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are about 4 inches long and 1 inch wide. The flowers are about 1 inch in diameter and have a bright pink to purple color. They bloom in late summer and fall, attracting bees and butterflies to your garden.

Care Guide

The Aster Kylie is a hardy plant that requires minimal care once established. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:

• Water: The Aster Kylie prefers well-drained soil and needs to be watered regularly, especially during dry spells.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth.
• Soil: The plant grows best in well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5.
• Sunlight: The Aster Kylie prefers full sun to partial shade and needs at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
• Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Aster Kylie is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and aster yellows. Here are some tips on how to prevent and treat these common problems:

• Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powder on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant. Treat with a fungicide if necessary.
• Rust: This fungal disease appears as orange spots on the leaves. To prevent rust, remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Treat with a fungicide if necessary.
• Aster Yellows: This bacterial disease causes the plant to produce distorted and yellowed flowers. To prevent aster yellows, remove infected plants and control the leafhopper population that spreads the disease.

Habitat

The Aster Kylie is native to North America and is commonly found in meadows, fields, and along roadsides. It grows best in full sun and well-drained soil, but can tolerate some shade and wet conditions.

Question and Answer

• Q: How often should I water my Aster Kylie?
• A: Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells. Make sure the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot.
• Q: Can I grow Aster Kylie in a container?
• A: Yes, you can grow Aster Kylie in a container as long as it has good drainage and the plant receives enough sunlight.
• Q: How do I deadhead my Aster Kylie?
• A: Deadhead the plant by removing the spent flowers with a pair of scissors or pruning shears. This will encourage the plant to produce more blooms.
• Q: Is the Aster Kylie deer-resistant?
• A: Yes, the plant is deer-resistant and can withstand some browsing.

Related Plants

• Symphyotrichum laeve (Smooth Blue Aster)
• Symphyotrichum novae-angliae (New England Aster)
• Symphyotrichum oblongifolium (Aromatic Aster)

References

• Missouri Botanical Garden, Symphyotrichum novae-angliae ‘Kylie’, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a962
• Gardenia, Symphyotrichum novae-angliae ‘Kylie’ (New England Aster), https://www.gardenia.net/plant/symphyotrichum-novae-angliae-kylie-new-england-aster
• University of Illinois Extension, New England Aster, https://extension.illinois.edu/hortihints/0112e.html