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Description
Symphyotrichum subulatum var. squamatum, commonly known as the eastern annual saltmarsh aster, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. The plant is native to the eastern coast of North America, ranging from Newfoundland to Florida. The plant is highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of habitats, including salt marshes, dunes, and disturbed sites.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Symphyotrichum |
Appearance
The eastern annual saltmarsh aster grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The plant has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are up to 3 inches long and 0.3 inches wide. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stem and are covered with fine hairs. The plant produces numerous flower heads that are about 0.5 inches in diameter. The flowers are typically blue or purple and have yellow centers. The plant blooms from July to September.
Care Guide
The eastern annual saltmarsh aster prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant requires regular watering and should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The eastern annual saltmarsh aster is relatively disease- and pest-resistant. However, the plant may be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. Aphids and spider mites may also infest the plant.
Habitat
The eastern annual saltmarsh aster is native to the eastern coast of North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including salt marshes, dunes, and disturbed sites. The plant is highly adaptable and can tolerate a range of soil types and moisture levels.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the eastern annual saltmarsh aster an invasive species?
A: No, the eastern annual saltmarsh aster is not considered an invasive species.
Q: Can the plant be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the eastern annual saltmarsh aster can be propagated from stem cuttings in late spring or early summer.
Q: How often should the plant be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: Is the plant toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence that the eastern annual saltmarsh aster is toxic to pets.
Related Plants
- Symphyotrichum novi-belgii
- Symphyotrichum laeve
- Symphyotrichum puniceum
References
- “Symphyotrichum Subulatum var. Squamatum.” USDA Plants Database.
- “Symphyotrichum Subulatum var. Squamatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden.
- “Eastern Annual Saltmarsh Aster.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
