Sawtooth Aster
symphyotrichum subulatum
Also known as: ["Eurybia subulata","Aster subulatus"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual plant native to North America, known for its small, daisy-like flowers with yellow centers and purple rays.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Symphyotrichum |
| Botanical Name: | Symphyotrichum subulatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead spent flowers regularly; perform a light shaping prune in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
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 afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid waterlogging; adjust based on weather and soil conditions.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter if needed; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); can tolerate mild frosts but thrives in moderate heat.
Monitor temperature extremes; adjust watering and light accordingly; protect from sudden temperature shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize in early spring before new growth; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leggy growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
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 (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., perlite and peat moss mix) or vermiculite.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged stems; remove spent flowers; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh, well-draining soil; water after repotting; avoid fertilizing for a few weeks.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution to the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf discoloration, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; mulch to insulate roots; move potted plants indoors if temperatures drop below freezing.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced; soil dries out quickly.
Solution: Increase watering frequency; provide afternoon shade; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest Symphyotrichum subulatum. The plant's toxicity is generally low, but ingestion should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Symphyotrichum subulatum can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSymphyotrichum subulatum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Symphyotrichum subulatum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Its flowers provide nectar for bees and butterflies, and its seeds are a food source for birds.
Q: Does this plant require much care?
A: It is very low maintenance and can thrive in poor soil with minimal watering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
