Overview
Boltonia asteroides is a perennial herb in the genus Boltonia, part of the Asteraceae family. Boltonia asteroides grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Suggested uses include wildlife gardens, naturalized areas and borders. It is native to Missouri, Vermont, Louisiana, North Carolina, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York and Oklahoma.
About
Boltonia asteroides is a perennial herb in the Asteraceae that flowers in late summer and early autumn (August to October). It favours sunny positions and consistently moist to wet soils. Plant in loamy, sandy or clay ground and allow space for it to form groups. Suited to naturalistic and wildlife-focused planting schemes.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Boltonia asteroides
About the genus
Boltonia is a genus of plants in the family Asteraceae native primarily to North America with one species in eastern Asia.
Wikipedia contributors, "Boltonia (plant)", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Boltonia (plant)
In the garden
Boltonia asteroides originates from parts of the central and eastern United States, notably Missouri, Vermont, Louisiana, North Carolina, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York and Oklahoma. As a member of the Asteraceae it contributes late-season blooms when much else is past its peak, making it useful for extending floral interest into autumn. Position it in full sun and choose a site where soils remain moist to wet; it will grow in loamy, sandy or clay substrates so long as they do not dry out. Establish in groups rather than as isolated specimens to create a longer, more noticeable flowering display from August to October. Give plants a sunny aspect to maximise bloom production. Use Boltonia asteroides in wildlife gardens, naturalised areas and along borders where late-season flowers are required. It works well at the back of a mixed border or spaced through meadow-style plantings to prolong the season. Expect a clear late-summer to autumn presence rather than a brief flush of colour.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Boltonia
- Sunlight
- full sun
- Soil type
- loamy, sandy, clay
- Soil moisture
- moist to wet
Plant details
Boltonia asteroides size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial herb
- Suggested uses
- wildlife gardens, naturalized areas, borders
- Native to
- Missouri, Vermont, Louisiana, North Carolina, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Boltonia asteroides
- Cultivation
- Prefers moist, well-drained soils; tolerates wet conditions; can spread aggressively in favorable conditions
- Pruning
- Deadhead to prolong flowering; cut back after flowering to maintain shape
- Propagation
- seed, division
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Boltonia asteroides?
Prefers moist, well-drained soils; tolerates wet conditions; can spread aggressively in favorable conditions.
Where is the best place to plant Boltonia asteroides?
Boltonia asteroides prefers full sun.
What soil does Boltonia asteroides need?
Boltonia asteroides is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including loamy, sandy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist to wet.
How do I prune Boltonia asteroides?
Deadhead to prolong flowering; cut back after flowering to maintain shape.
How do I propagate Boltonia asteroides?
Seed, division.
More in the Boltonia genus
- Boltonia asteroides 'Diva'
- Boltonia asteroides 'Pink Beauty'
- Boltonia decurrensdecurrent false aster
- Boltonia latisquama
- Boltonia asteroides var. recognita