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Description
Symphyotrichum Praealtum, also known as the Willowleaf Aster, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America and is commonly found in prairies, meadows, and open woods. This plant is known for its beautiful purple flowers that bloom from August to October.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Symphyotrichum |
Appearance
The Willowleaf Aster can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has narrow, willow-like leaves that are 3-6 inches long and 1/2 inch wide. The leaves are dark green and have a slightly rough texture. The plant produces numerous, small, daisy-like flowers that are typically purple in color. Each flower is about 1 inch in diameter and has yellow centers. The flowers bloom in clusters at the top of the stem.
Care Guide
To care for Symphyotrichum Praealtum, follow these tips:
Water: This plant prefers consistently moist soil, but do not overwater as it can lead to root rot. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Do not fertilize after August, as it can promote new growth that may not have time to harden off before winter.
Soil: The Willowleaf Aster prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but does best in loamy soils.
Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun, but can tolerate light shade.
Hardiness Zones: Symphyotrichum Praealtum is hardy in USDA Zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Symphyotrichum Praealtum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions. To prevent this, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
The Willowleaf Aster is native to North America and can be found in prairies, meadows, and open woods. It prefers well-draining soils and full sun, but can tolerate light shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Symphyotrichum Praealtum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Willowleaf Aster?
A: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Do not fertilize after August.
Q: When should I prune my Symphyotrichum Praealtum?
A: Prune in the spring before new growth appears to remove any dead or damaged stems.
Q: How do I propagate my Willowleaf Aster?
A: Propagate by dividing the plant in the spring or fall. Make sure each division has a healthy root system and replant in well-draining soil.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Symphyotrichum Praealtum:
- Symphyotrichum novae-angliae (New England Aster)
- Symphyotrichum laeve (Smooth Aster)
- Symphyotrichum oblongifolium (Aromatic Aster)
- Symphyotrichum cordifolium (Blue Heart-leaved Aster)
- Symphyotrichum ericoides (Heath Aster)
References
- “Symphyotrichum Praealtum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/plantfinder/plantfinderdetails.aspx?kempercode=b599>
- “Symphyotrichum Praealtum.” North Carolina State University. Accessed September 2021. <https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/symphyotrichum-praealtum/>
- “Willowleaf Aster.” Illinois Wildflowers. Accessed September 2021. <https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/wl_asterx.htm>
