Aster ericoides 'First Snow' |
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Photo Courtesy of Walters Gardens, Inc.
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This variety of Heath Aster differs from typical fall blooming asters in both form and function. It is a cultivar of the native A. ericoides, a drought tolerant species that occurs naturally in dry prairies and open rocky woods.
At first glance in summertime, this plant looks much like a spreading Juniper shrub in habit and foliage. Though the narrow, linear, green leaves look like they might be prickly from a distance, they are actually quite soft to the touch.
Woody, arching to prostrate stems carry dense sprays of tiny, white, star-like flowers late in the season from late summer into fall, covering the foliage like a blanket of fresh snow. It is often one of the last perennials to finish blooming.
This low maintenance perennial is mildew resistant and is not effected by any serious pests or diseases. It is beautiful when allowed to sprawl over the edge of rock walls or when combined with evergreens.
Introducer: Intrinsic Perennial Gardens
Origin: Native Cultivar
Characteristics:
Height:
18-24 Inches
Spread:
40 Inches
Flower Color:
White Shades
Foliage Color:
Green shades
Sun or Shade?:
Full sun (> 6 hrs. direct sun)
Wet or dry?:
Low water needs
Average water needs
Want to see wings?:
Attracts butterflies
How fast should it grow?:
Medium
When should it bloom?:
Late summer
Early fall
How's your soil?:
Poor Soil
Average Soil
Sweet or Sour Soil?:
Neutral Soil (pH = 7.0)
Alkaline Soil (pH > 7.0)
What's your garden style?:
Prairie
Cottage
Asian
Rock Garden
Rain Garden
Eclectic
Unlike typical asters, A. ericoides is a drought tolerant native species that occurs naturally in dry prairies and open rocky woods. It is adaptable to dry to average soil of poor fertility as long as it is well-drained. This plant is mildew resistant and is not typically affected by any serious pests or diseases.
"Aster" is latin for "star," in reference to the shape of its flower.