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Description
Symphyotrichum Shortii, commonly known as Short’s aster or Shawnee Hills aster, is a herbaceous perennial flowering plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is native to the eastern United States, specifically found in Kentucky, Ohio, and Tennessee. This plant typically grows up to 1-2 feet tall and spreads up to 2-3 feet wide. It blooms in late summer to early fall with small, daisy-like flowers that are light purple to lavender in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Symphyotrichum |
Appearance
Short’s aster has a bushy, upright growth habit with numerous stems. Its leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, measuring up to 5 inches long and 1 inch wide. The foliage is green and smooth, with a slightly hairy texture. The flowers are small and daisy-like, measuring up to 1 inch in diameter. They are light purple to lavender in color, with yellow centers. The blooms are produced in clusters on the ends of the stems, creating a showy display.
Care Guide
Water
Short’s aster prefers moist, well-draining soil. It should be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize Short’s aster in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. You can also apply a liquid fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and blooming.
Soil
This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils.
Sunlight
Short’s aster prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not bloom as prolifically in these conditions.
Hardiness Zones
This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Short’s aster is generally disease-resistant and not bothered by many pests. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew, which can be treated with fungicides. Overwatering can also lead to root rot, which can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage.
Habitat
Short’s aster is native to the eastern United States, specifically found in Kentucky, Ohio, and Tennessee. It is typically found in woodland edges, meadows, and prairies.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Short’s aster a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Short’s aster is a great choice for attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to your garden.
Q: Does Short’s aster require staking?
A: No, Short’s aster has a bushy growth habit and typically does not require staking.
Q: Can Short’s aster be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Short’s aster can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and provide adequate drainage.
Q: How often should Short’s aster be divided?
A: Short’s aster should be divided every 3 to 4 years to prevent overcrowding and maintain plant vigor.
Related Plants
- Symphyotrichum cordifolium (heartleaf aster)
- Symphyotrichum laeve (smooth blue aster)
- Symphyotrichum novae-angliae (New England aster)
- Symphyotrichum oblongifolium (aromatic aster)
References
- “Symphyotrichum shortii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 27, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281928.
- “Aster Shortii.” Illinois Wildflowers. Accessed August 27, 2021. https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/sh_asterx.htm.
- “Short’s Aster (Symphyotrichum shortii).” Plant Database. Accessed August 27, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=SYSH.
