Contents
Description
Symphyotrichum Puniceum Var. Scabricaule, also known as Purplestem Aster, is a perennial plant that is native to the eastern United States. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is a popular addition to gardens and natural landscapes. It can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide and has slender stems that are covered in fine hairs. The flowers bloom in late summer and early fall and are a vibrant shade of purple. The plant attracts butterflies and bees and is a great choice for pollinator gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Symphyotrichum |
Appearance
The leaves of Symphyotrichum Puniceum Var. Scabricaule are narrow and lance-shaped, with a reddish-purple stem. The flowers are daisy-like with a yellow center and a purple outer ring of petals. They grow in clusters at the top of the stem and can be up to 1 inch in diameter. The plant has a bushy growth habit and can spread via rhizomes.
Care Guide
Water: Symphyotrichum Puniceum Var. Scabricaule prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist.
Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Soil: The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Amend the soil with organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will not flower as prolifically.
Hardiness Zones: Symphyotrichum Puniceum Var. Scabricaule is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Common pests that can affect Symphyotrichum Puniceum Var. Scabricaule include aphids, spider mites, and leafhoppers. Diseases that can affect the plant include powdery mildew and rust. To prevent pests and diseases, keep the plant healthy and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Symphyotrichum Puniceum Var. Scabricaule is native to the eastern United States, where it can be found in meadows, prairies, and along roadsides. It prefers open, sunny areas with well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Symphyotrichum Puniceum Var. Scabricaule be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize Symphyotrichum Puniceum Var. Scabricaule?
A: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Q: How much sunlight does Symphyotrichum Puniceum Var. Scabricaule need?
A: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will not flower as prolifically.
Q: How do I propagate Symphyotrichum Puniceum Var. Scabricaule?
A: The plant can be propagated via division in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Symphyotrichum novae-angliae (New England Aster)
- Symphyotrichum laeve (Smooth Blue Aster)
- Symphyotrichum oblongifolium (Aromatic Aster)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Symphyotrichum puniceum var. scabricaule
- North Carolina State University Extension: Symphyotrichum puniceum var. scabricaule
- Wildflower Center: Symphyotrichum puniceum var. scabricaule
