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Aster tongolensis (East Indies aster)

Aster tongolensis Photo/Illustration: Pamela Harper


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Botanical Name:Aster tongolensis Common Name: East Indies aster Genus: Aster
This is a mat-forming aster with thick, almost leafless stems that support solitary, violet-blue ray florets and orange-yellow disk florets.
Noteworthy characteristics: Many cultivars exist.
Care: Needs well-drained, average 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 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Light Full Sun Only
Maintenance Moderate
Characteristics Attracts Butterflies; Showy Flowers
Bloom Time Late Summer; Summer
Flower Color Blue Flower; Purple/ Lavender Flower
Uses Beds and Borders
Style Meadow Garden
Seasonal Interest Summer Interest, Fall Interest
Type Perennials

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