Latin Name: Symphyotrichum subspicatum (formerly Aster subspicatus)
Common Name(s): Douglas’s Aster
Family: Asteraceae
Size: Variable, up to 4 feet tall and wide
Life Cycle: Perennial
Distribution: Western North America in a variety of habitats. Likes coastal and riparian habitats, moist meadows, and marshes. Can tolerate some salt and can survive in coatal environments.
Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
USDA Zone: 6 to 9
Drought Tolerance: Medium-Low. This plant needs regular water and grows in moist places in nature.
Fire Risk: Low
Cultivation Notes
Douglas’s aster is an attractive native flower that makes a lovely addition to moist areas and cottage gardens. It is very tolerant of different soil types but does require decent moisture, so grow only near water, in irrigated gardens, or in partially shaded low spots that remain somewhat moist. It is capable of surviving our summers with no irrigation, but the conditions need to be right. It can be lanky, so don’t be afraid to prune back once the plant is established. This plant does not suffer from too many pests or diseases, but slugs can be problematic. You can control them by hand-picking or ducks, perhaps the only two reliable non-chemical control methods.
Ecology
The attractive flowers bloom from mid-summer through fall and are attractive to pollinators. Butterflies are quite fond of this plant. The seeds are consumed by birds in the winter, when few food sources are available.
Uses
There are not many documented human uses of Douglas’s aster.
Propagation
Division, basal stem cuttings, or seed. The cute feathery seeds are easily collected and can be sown directly in the fall. Simply press lightly on the soil surface and wait. Germination can be slow and often is irregular. If planting in the late spring, cold stratification will likely be needed for up to two months before germination will take place. Keep moist!