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Description
Symphyotrichum Novi-Belgii Var. Tardiflorus, also known as the late-flowering New York aster, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. The plant has a bushy habit and can grow up to 3-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide. It produces small, daisy-like flowers that bloom in late summer to early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Symphyotrichum |
Appearance
Symphyotrichum Novi-Belgii Var. Tardiflorus has green leaves that are lance-shaped and toothed. The leaves are about 2-4 inches long and 0.5-1 inch wide. The flowers are usually blue-violet, but they can also be pink, purple, or white, and they have yellow centers. The flowers are about 1 inch in diameter and are arranged in clusters at the top of the stems. The plant has a bushy habit and can be used as a border plant or in mass plantings.
Care Guide
Symphyotrichum Novi-Belgii Var. Tardiflorus is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care once established. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water it regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in the fall, as this can promote new growth that may not have time to harden off before winter.- Soil: The plant prefers a rich, well-draining soil. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will bloom better in full sun.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Symphyotrichum Novi-Belgii Var. Tardiflorus is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust. To avoid these problems, provide good air circulation around the plant and avoid overwatering. If necessary, treat with a fungicide labeled for use on ornamental plants.
Habitat
Symphyotrichum Novi-Belgii Var. Tardiflorus is native to North America and can be found in wet meadows, marshes, and along stream banks. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Symphyotrichum Novi-Belgii Var. Tardiflorus a good plant for pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant produces nectar-rich flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Does Symphyotrichum Novi-Belgii Var. Tardiflorus require staking?
A: No, the plant has a bushy habit and does not require staking.
Q: Can Symphyotrichum Novi-Belgii Var. Tardiflorus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it will require more frequent watering and fertilization than if grown in the ground.
Q: When is the best time to divide Symphyotrichum Novi-Belgii Var. Tardiflorus?
A: The plant can be divided in the spring or fall, but it is best to wait until after it has finished blooming.
Related Plants
– Symphyotrichum laeve (Smooth Blue Aster)- Symphyotrichum oblongifolium (Aromatic Aster)- Symphyotrichum novae-angliae (New England Aster)- Symphyotrichum patens (Late Purple Aster)
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Symphyotrichum novi-belgii var. tardiflorus. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c520- North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Symphyotrichum novi-belgii var. tardiflorus. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/symphyotrichum-novi-belgii-var-tardiflorus/
