Tansy aster
machaeranthera tanacetifolia
Also known as: ["Tanacetifolia aster","Tansyleaf aster"]
Overview
A perennial wildflower native to North America, known for its daisy-like lavender to purple flowers and fern-like foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Machaeranthera |
| Botanical Name: | Machaeranthera tanacetifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30 to 40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning after flowering; major pruning every 2–3 years to rejuvenate.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent heat stress.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light indoors; avoid placing in shaded corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Avoid heavy clay soils; use raised beds for better drainage; test soil pH annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates cooler temperatures down to 50°F (10°C) but may become dormant below 40°F (4°C).
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
rarely needed, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once annually in early spring if desired
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a low-nitrogen formula for flowering plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone, plant in moist medium, keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., cactus mix with perlite or sand).
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness, cut back stems to healthy nodes, remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts; focus on post-flowering for reblooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune at the right time, make clean cuts, remove debris, monitor regrowth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots if necessary, use fresh soil, water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting foliage, adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, apply until water drains from the bottom, ensure excess water exits to prevent root rot, water in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter; adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, bud drop, or leaf burn in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dormancy; prolonged exposure below 40°F (4°C) can damage roots.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; apply a thick layer of mulch for ground plants; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, growth may slow, and flowering can be reduced; excessive heat can cause wilting or dehydration.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to keep roots cool.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with foliage, flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMachaeranthera tanacetifolia is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicMachaeranthera tanacetifolia is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicMachaeranthera tanacetifolia is not known to have significant toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Machaeranthera tanacetifolia attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Is this plant drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, it thrives in dry conditions and is well-suited for xeriscaping.
Q: How often should it be watered?
A: Water sparingly, as overwatering can lead to root rot; established plants require minimal supplemental water.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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