Aster turbinellus (prairie aster) — Clump-forming, upright to bushy

Overview

Aster turbinellus is a clump-forming, upright to bushy perennial in the genus Aster, part of the Asteraceae family, with deciduous; simple, often narrow and roughly textured foliage. Aster turbinellus grows best in full sun, and tolerates fertile loam; avoid thin and dry soils soils and neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6–H7. Suggested uses include borders, wildflower gardens and naturalized areas. It is native to United States.

About

Aster turbinellus is a clump-forming perennial in the Asteraceae that flowers from August to October. It carries upright stems with simple, often narrow leaves that can feel roughly textured. Plant in full sun on a fertile, neutral to slightly alkaline loam kept moist but well drained. Suited to south, east or west aspects and tolerant of both exposed and sheltered sites.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Symphyotrichum turbinellum

About the genus

Aster is a genus of perennial flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. Its circumscription has been narrowed, and it now encompasses around 170 species, all but one of which are restricted to Eurasia; many species formerly in Aster are now in other genera of the tribe Astereae. Aster amellus is the type species of the genus and the family Asteraceae.

Wikipedia contributors, "Aster (genus)", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Aster (genus)

In the garden

Aster turbinellus originates from the United States and establishes as a clump-forming, upright perennial within the daisy family. Its foliage is deciduous and typically narrow and roughly textured, forming a clear seasonal outline before dying back. In the UK it stands out for its late-summer to autumn display, with flowers produced between August and October. Position the plant in full sun on a fertile loam; avoid thin, dry soils where it will underperform. It prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soil and a moisture regime that is consistently moist yet well drained rather than bone dry. Give a south, east or west-facing aspect where possible; the species tolerates both exposed and sheltered sites and carries an H6–H7 rating, meaning it is very hardy to fully hardy across most of the UK. Use Aster turbinellus towards the back of borders, in naturalised meadow-style plantings or within wildflower areas where a late-season presence is required. Its clump-forming habit helps it sit neatly in perennial groups and mixed beds. Expect flowering from August to October, which extends the season when many other perennials are fading.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Aster

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Fertile loam; avoid thin, dry soils
Soil pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline
Soil moisture: Moist but well drained
Aspect: South, east or west facing
Exposure: Exposed or sheltered
UK hardiness: H6–H7

Plant details

Aster turbinellus size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Perennial
Habit: Clump-forming, upright to bushy
Foliage: Deciduous; simple, often narrow and roughly textured
Suggested uses: Borders, wildflower gardens, naturalized areas
Native to: United States

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Aster turbinellus

Cultivation: Plant in an open, airy position — crowding is what brings on mildew. Divide every second or third year to maintain vigour, and pinch or Chelsea-chop the taller kinds in late spring to reduce the need for staking.
Pruning: Deadhead to prolong the display, then cut stems to the base after flowering, or leave them standing through winter for structure and wildlife.
Propagation: Divide in spring, replanting only the vigorous outer growth. Basal cuttings taken in spring root readily.
Pest resistance: Slugs may take young shoots in spring; otherwise generally trouble-free.
Disease resistance: Powdery mildew is the main weakness, especially among the older novi-belgii cultivars. The frikartii hybrids and the aster relatives are markedly more resistant.

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Aster turbinellus?

Plant in an open, airy position — crowding is what brings on mildew. Divide every second or third year to maintain vigour, and pinch or Chelsea-chop the taller kinds in late spring to reduce the need for staking.

Where is the best place to plant Aster turbinellus?

Aster turbinellus prefers full sun. It suits exposed or sheltered positions.

What soil does Aster turbinellus need?

Aster turbinellus grows best in fertile loam; avoid thin and dry soils soil. It prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well drained.