Purplestem Aster
Aster puniceus

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae

What it is like

Aster puniceus is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.3 m (4ft 3in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from September 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. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 1.3

Where it is found

Not known

Eastern N. America. Naturalized in several sites in northern Britain.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 0

Medicine

Rating: 2

The roots are diaphoretic, emmenagogue and febrifuge. A decoction has been used in the treatment of colds, consumption, typhoid, pneumonia and fevers. A decoction has been used to promote menstruation - this can lead to an abortion. The decoction has also been used to restore a woman to health after giving birth. The chewed root has been applied to an aching tooth to allay the pain.

Other

Rating: 2

Landscape uses: Forest garden, Cottage gardens, Water garden, Wildlife garden, Moist Prairie or Meadow, Perennial borders. Attracts wildlife: Butterfly nectar plant, Butterfly host plants.

Attracts Wildlife: Plants noted for attracting wildlife

Food Forest: Plants for Edible Forest Gardens and Food Forests.

Scented Plants: Plants noted for their scent

How it is grown

Succeeds in most good garden soils, preferring one that is well-drained and moisture retentive. Prefers a sunny position, but it also succeeds in partial shade. Prefers a rich soil, but tolerates poor ones. Plants are hardy to about -25°c. The crushed plant has a smell like juniper berries. Hybridizes freely with other members of this genus. Plants need to be divided every few years, preferably in the spring, in order to keep the plant vigorous. Most species in this genus seem to be immune to the predations of rabbits. Attracts butterflies and moths, it is also a good bee plant providing nectar in autumn.

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. Very easy, larger divisions can be planted straight into their permanent positions whist smaller clumps are best potted up and kept in a cold frame until they are growing away well. Basal cuttings in late spring. Harvest the shoots when they are about 10 - 15cm long with plenty of underground stem. Pot them up into individual pots and keep them in light shade in a cold frame or greenhouse until they are rooting well. Plant them out in the summer.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness: 3-8

Growth:

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

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

A. hispidus. Lam.