Symphyotrichum Simmondsii

Description

Symphyotrichum simmondsii, commonly known as Simmonds’ aster, is a flowering plant species native to North America. It is a perennial plant that grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. A member of the Asteraceae family, Symphyotrichum simmondsii produces blue-violet flowers with yellow centers that bloom in the late summer and fall.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukarya
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Asterales
Family	Asteraceae
Genus	Symphyotrichum

Appearance

Symphyotrichum simmondsii has slender, upright stems that are typically greenish-purple in color. The leaves are lance-shaped and can range from 3 to 6 inches long. The flowers of the plant grow in clusters at the end of each stem and are typically 1-2 inches in diameter. The petals of the flowers are a blue-violet color with yellow centers. The plant blooms in late summer and fall, and the flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Care Guide

To care for Symphyotrichum simmondsii, follow these guidelines:Water: Water thoroughly once a week, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: Plant in full sun or partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Symphyotrichum simmondsii is hardy in USDA Zones 5-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Symphyotrichum simmondsii is generally not susceptible to pests or diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by powdery mildew or leaf spot. To prevent these issues, make sure the plant is planted in well-draining soil and avoid overhead watering.

Habitat

Symphyotrichum simmondsii is native to North America and is commonly found in meadows, along roadsides, and in open woods. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade.

Question and Answer

Q: How tall does Symphyotrichum simmondsii typically grow?
A: Symphyotrichum simmondsii can grow up to 3 feet tall.Q: What color are the flowers of Symphyotrichum simmondsii?
A: The flowers of Symphyotrichum simmondsii are blue-violet with yellow centers.Q: In which USDA hardiness zones is Symphyotrichum simmondsii hardy?
A: Symphyotrichum simmondsii is hardy in Zones 5-9.Q: What type of soil does Symphyotrichum simmondsii prefer?
A: Symphyotrichum simmondsii prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Symphyotrichum simmondsii:

• Symphyotrichum cordifolium
• Symphyotrichum novae-angliae
• Symphyotrichum oblongifolium
• Symphyotrichum patens

References

• “Symphyotrichum simmondsii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e894.
• “Symphyotrichum simmondsii.” Plants of the World Online, www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:236077-2.
• “Symphyotrichum simmondsii.” PlantFiles, www.gardensonline.com.au/gardenshed/plantfinder/show_1601.aspx.