False aster - Boltonia asteroides (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

False aster

Also known as: White boltonia, False chamomile

False aster (Boltonia asteroides) is a perennial plant that blooms from summer to fall with white pink lilac or purple daisy-like flowers attracting butterflies. Grows well in a natural garden and provides a showy flower that will last in a cut flower arrangement. Thrives in full sun with moderate moisture in well-drained soil.

Scientific classification

Species

False aster (Boltonia asteroides)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

1 m

Spread

Green, Gray

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

White, Pink, Purple, Yellow

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of False aster

Attributes of False aster

Growth Rate

In summer, false aster showcases a rapid growth rate, towering quickly due to increased sunlight, often leading to a dense profusion of leaves. Copious, vigorous growth can stimulate an abundant flowering event. While the speed slackens in off-seasons, its summer vigor underscores false aster's hardiness, resilience and vibrant visual display - a living testament to its adaptability within its native ecosystem.

Distribution of False aster

Distribution Map

False aster is native to temperate regions of North America. Its range has extended through cultivation, and it has been introduced to parts of Southeast Asia and Europe. As a cultivated species, false aster is found in various settings beyond its original habitat, indicating a degree of adaptability to new environments.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Sandy or gravelly, moist to wet places

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify False aster

Robust perennial reaching 5-6 feet (150-180 cm) with dark gray-green lance-shaped leaves.

Array of daisy-like blooms, 3/4 inch (2 cm) across, white rays with yellow disc.

Spiny fruit, small dry achenes in straw to brown hues, visible in autumn.

Elongated, narrow leaves up to 5 inches (12.7 cm) long, pinnate vein pattern.

Robust, branching stem, erect up to 6 feet (1.8 meters), slightly ribbed, green to purple.

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Care Guide for False aster

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: False aster thrives in moist environments, preferring consistent moisture without excessive watering. A weekly watering schedule sustains hydration. As a resilient herbaceous perennial, false aster adapts well to varying moisture levels, making it suitable for unpredictable rainfall during the growing season.

Fertilize: For false aster, use a balanced 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer to promote health, applying it once in spring and monthly in summer, adjusting the dose for potted plants. Suspend feeding in fall and winter. Integrate fertilizer into the soil near the base, watering well afterward to enhance nutrient absorption.

Pruning: False aster features vibrant daisy-like flowers and bushy growth. Prune in early to late spring, trimming one-third to improve air circulation and prevent disease. Deadhead blooms for continuous flowering, and use sterilized tools for clean cuts to enhance vigor and blooming potential.

Propagation: False aster is a perennial that blooms in late summer, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil. For propagation, divide rooted clumps in early spring or autumn, ensuring each division has multiple shoots. Replant promptly at the same depth, watering gently for establishment.

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