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Aster ericoides (Heath aster)

Aster ericoides Photo/Illustration: David Dvorak


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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Aster ericoides ASS-ter err-ih-KOY-deez Common Name: Heath aster Genus: Aster
This clumping, bushy perennial has slender stems and small, lance-shaped, medium green leaves. From late summer to late fall, it produces white flowerheads with yellow centers to a half-inch across. Its cultivars may bear flowers tinged pink or blue.
 Noteworthy characteristics: U.S. native. Attracts butterflies.
 Care: Needs an open location with good drainage and moderately fertile soil in full sun.
 Propagation: Most asters require frequent division.
 Problems: Asters are sometimes plagued by fungal diseases. The most common are wilt disease, powdery mildew, and botrytis.
Height 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Spread 6 in. to 12 in.
Growth Habit Clumps
Light Full Sun Only
Moisture Dry to Medium
Characteristics Native; Showy Flowers
Bloom Time Early Fall; Fall; Late Summer; Summer
Flower Color Blue Flower; Pink Flower; White Flower
Uses Beds and Borders
Style Cottage Garden
Seasonal Interest Summer Interest, Fall Interest
Type Perennials

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