Aster hauptii

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae

What it is like

Aster hauptii is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 2. It is in flower from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. 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): 0.6

Where it is found

Steppes, stony slopes and shrubby formations, mainly in the mid-mountain zone.

E. Asia - Siberia.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

Young leaves - cooked.

Medicine

Rating: 0

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. Most species in this genus seem to be immune to the predations of rabbits. Hybridizes freely with other members of this genus. There is some confusion over this name. One report says that A. hauptii. Ledeb. is a synonym for Galatella hauptii. (Ledeb.)Lindl. This is a name that is not at present accepted by most botanists and need not concern us. However, the report then goes on to say that A. hauptii. Turcz. is a synonym of Galatella dahurica. DC. (which equals A. dahuricus. (DC.)Benth.), a plant found in shrubberies, forest edges and meadows up to the mountain zone. We assume that our record refers to A. hauptii. Ledeb. but there must be some doubt about this. Just to further confuse matters, one synonym for this species is A. fastigiatus. Ledeb. and there also seems to be an A. fastigiatus. Fisch. Some further investigation is required.

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:

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

A. fastigiatus. Ledeb. Galatella hauptii. (Ledeb.)Lindley.