Kingdom Plantae Family Asteraceae Genus Symphyotrichum Rank Species | Order Asterales Tribe Astereae Higher classification Aster | |
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Scientific name Symphyotrichum lateriflorum Similar Aster, Symphyotrichum cordifolium, Symphyotrichum ericoides, Eurybia divaricata, Symphyotrichum | ||
Symphyotrichum lateriflorum (common name calico aster or starved aster) is a species of flowering plant in the daisy family Asteraceae, native to eastern North America. In the British Isles it is still widely referenced under its old name, Aster lateriflorus syn. A. diffusus, A. vimineus.
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Description
Growing to 120 cm (47 in) tall by 30 cm (12 in) wide, S. lateriflorum is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial with alternate, simple leaves on stiff, hairy, purplish stems. Small white or pale lilac composite daisy-like flowers are borne in corymbs up to 15 cm (6 in) across in late summer and fall (autumn).
Cultivation
Like other asters, this plant is valued in gardens for providing late colour after the main flowering season has finished. The cultivars S. lateriflorum var. horizontale and 'Coombe Fishacre' have gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
