Aster diplostephioides
Family: Asteraceae or Compositae
What it is like
Aster diplostephioides is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, beetles, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.5
Where it is found
Alpine pastures, 3000 - 3800 metres.
E. Asia - Himalayas from Kashmir to Sikkim
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 2
This plant is said to have medicinal properties, but no details were given in the report. The flowers are used in Tibetan medicine, they are said to have a bitter taste and a cooling potency. Antidote, febrifuge, haemostatic and tonic, they are used in the treatment of infectious fevers, influenza, nose bleeds, poisoning, sores from environmental poisoning and an inability to stretch or contract the limbs.
Antidote: Counters poisoning.
Febrifuge: Reduces fevers.
Haemostatic: Controls internal bleeding.
Tonic: Improves general health. Slower acting than a stimulant, it brings steady improvement.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Succeeds in most good garden soils, preferring one that is well-drained and moisture retentive. Prefers a sunny position. A very ornamental plant, it grows well in a rock garden. Most species in this genus seem to be immune to the predations of rabbits. Hybridizes freely with other members of this genus.
Propagating it: Seed - surface sow in spring in a cold frame. Do not allow the compost to become dry. Pre-chilling the seed for two weeks can improve germination rates. Germination usually takes place within 2 weeks at 20°c. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. Division in spring or autumn.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 6-9
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist