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Description
Aster Verticillatus, commonly known as Whorled 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 various habitats such as meadows, woodlands, and prairies. It can grow up to a height of 1-3 feet and has a spread of 1-2 feet. The plant produces white to pale blue flowers with yellow centers that bloom from August to October. The leaves of the plant are arranged in whorls of 4-7 and are lance-shaped with a toothed margin.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliophyta |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Aster |
Appearance
Aster Verticillatus has a bushy and upright growth habit with multiple stems arising from the base. The stems are green, erect, and slightly hairy. The leaves of the plant are arranged in whorls and are a bright green color. They are lance-shaped with a toothed margin and have a rough texture. The flowers of the plant are produced in small clusters at the end of each stem. They are white to pale blue in color with yellow centers and have a diameter of about 1 inch. The flowers bloom from August to October and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Aster Verticillatus is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:Water: This plant prefers moist soil, so it is important to water it regularly. However, make sure not to overwater it as it can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring using a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing the plant in the fall as it can interfere with its natural cycle.Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If the soil is heavy, amend it with compost to improve drainage.Sunlight: Aster Verticillatus prefers full sun to partial shade. However, it can tolerate some shade.Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aster Verticillatus is relatively pest and disease-free. However, here are some common pests and diseases that may affect this plant:Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars may infest this plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control these pests.Diseases: Powdery mildew, downy mildew, and rust may affect this plant. Avoid overhead watering and remove any infected leaves to prevent the spread of the disease.
Habitat
Aster Verticillatus is native to North America and can be found growing in various habitats such as meadows, woodlands, and prairies. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate some shade. This plant is commonly found growing in the eastern and central regions of North America.
Question and Answer
Q. Is Aster Verticillatus a good plant for beginners?A. Yes, Aster Verticillatus is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for, making it a great choice for beginners.Q. Can Aster Verticillatus tolerate drought?A. No, Aster Verticillatus prefers moist soil and cannot tolerate drought.Q. How often should I fertilize Aster Verticillatus?A. You should fertilize Aster Verticillatus once a year in the spring using a balanced fertilizer.Q. Can Aster Verticillatus be grown in containers?A. Yes, Aster Verticillatus can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its growth.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are closely related to Aster Verticillatus:- Aster Alpinus- Aster Novae-Angliae- Aster Novi-Belgii- Aster Cordifolius- Aster Laevis
References
– “Aster Verticillatus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281206.- “Whorled Aster.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ASVE.
