Sea Aster
Aster tripolium
Family: Asteraceae or Compositae
What it is like
Aster tripolium is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.9 m (3ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from July 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 and can grow in saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.9
Where it is found
Salt marshes and maritime cliffs.
Coastal areas of Europe, including Britain, N. Africa and saline inland areas of Europe and C. Asia.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 2
Leaves and stems - the somewhat fleshy leaves are used to make pickles or are cooked. A sweet taste. The stem contains about 8.4% ash, whilst the leaf is 9% ash - this is mainly sodium chloride.
Medicine
Rating: 1
Ophthalmic.
Ophthalmic: Treats eye complaints.
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. This species tends to be a short-lived perennial. 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.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 5-9
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist