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Description
Symphyotrichum Salignum, commonly known as White Wood Aster, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in various habitats including forests, meadows, and wetlands. The plant has a height of about 1-3 feet and a spread of 2-3 feet. It blooms in late summer to early fall with white flowers that have yellow centers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Symphyotrichum |
Appearance
Symphyotrichum Salignum has a bushy growth habit with a clump-forming nature. Its leaves are alternate, simple, and lance-shaped with toothed edges. The stem is hairy and can be green or reddish-brown in color. The flowers are daisy-like, with white petals and yellow centers. They are about 1 inch in diameter and bloom in late summer to early fall. The plant produces achenes that are small, dry, and one-seeded.
Care Guide
Symphyotrichum Salignum is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: The plant prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water it regularly, especially during dry spells.- Fertilization: The plant does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring is sufficient.- Soil: The plant prefers loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full to partial sun exposure.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Symphyotrichum Salignum is generally free from serious pest and disease problems. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation, avoiding overhead watering, and removing infected leaves.
Habitat
Symphyotrichum Salignum is native to North America and can be found in various habitats including forests, meadows, and wetlands. It is commonly found in the eastern and central parts of the United States and Canada.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Symphyotrichum Salignum a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant is a good attractant for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: How often should I water Symphyotrichum Salignum?
A: The plant prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water it regularly, especially during dry spells.
Q: Can Symphyotrichum Salignum tolerate full sun exposure?
A: Yes, the plant prefers full to partial sun exposure.
Q: What is the blooming period of Symphyotrichum Salignum?
A: The plant blooms in late summer to early fall with white flowers that have yellow centers.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Symphyotrichum Salignum:- Symphyotrichum Novae-Angliae (New England Aster)- Symphyotrichum Laeve (Smooth Aster)- Symphyotrichum Oolentangiense (Skyblue Aster)- Symphyotrichum Praeve (Willow Aster)
References
– “Symphyotrichum salignum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 22 June 2021.
