I find myself being drawn more and more to species plants rather than hybrids. A case in point is the Aster umbellatus which resides on in the Daisy Border on the slope. It flowers before the other Asters and daisy type flowers in my garden and is very popular with pollinators.
Aster umbellatus is a North American species. It is also known as Flat Topped Aster. Some US sites say it should grow in moist conditions or on the side of a swamp! Mine grows on a slope albeit it on clay soil, and it is thriving. I planted it two years ago and this year it is easily topping 4ft if not 5ft.
Aster umbellatus is also mildew free definitely a good thing considering the amount of rain we have had this year. I wonder if the species are more resistent and whether all the inter-breeding leads to more suspectability to diseases and pests.
But what I particularly like about this plant is the tiny flowers which on their long stems waft in the wind and have a similar quality to Verbena bonariensis, albeit it a little shorter. I would really recommend this plant, so would the insects.
What a beautiful plant Helen. Often species plants are tougher than hybrids and are usually cabable of self seeding which is a bonus. Christina
Yvonne – NZ – Wow – how tall – I bet the butterflies love this flower! I’m off to South America tomorrow – so will wave to you from Rio! Closer the NZ! I will go to the Botanic Gardens etc.!!
That is lovely Helen – I think I will have to add it too my wish list – as you say mildew free is such a plus in the aster family.
K
xx
I really like this flower. I bet it looks lovely swaying in the breeze. – http://mary-goingnative.blogspot.com/
I’ve wanted to try this aster in my wet garden for several years. Your recommendation may have just pushed me into action.
Hi James – give it a go I think it would look wonderful in your garde, lovely soft muted colours
It is beautiful. I don’t know this plant, and it probably wouldn’t do well here if it needs moist conditions, but it is really pretty in your garden. I bet you are right about species being more resistant than most hybrids, too.
Nice. I have a number of asters, but not this one.The tall, airy habit is unusual for an aster, I think. And I like the white flowers. Reminds me a little of Boltonia.
Will have to look out for this one Helen. I already have the white flowering aster divaricatus but I’m sure that I could find room for another, especially one that attracts flying creatures.
Love my asters and especially this one
I love these plants, they remind me of daises but insects really are attracted with them.
R