Large-leafed Aster (Eurybia macrophylla) is a perennial wildflower native to Eastern North America, including Wisconsin. It is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Flowering stems reach a height of 1 to 2 feet, topped with violet blossoms that feature 9 to 20 thin violet rays surrounding a yellow center measuring 1.5 inches across. Although the flowers have no floral scent, they make excellent cut flowers and bloom from August to October. They provide nectar and pollen, attracting butterflies, bees, moths, and beetles. Additionally, they serve as host plants for the Pearl Crescent (Phyciodes tharos) and Silvery Checkerspot (Chlosyne nycteis) butterflies.
Large-leafed Aster prefers partial sun to shade and can reach a mature height of 1 to 3 feet with a spread of 2 to 3 feet. Its preferred soil ranges from dry sand to heavy clay, provided it is well-drained; it can tolerate moist or dry conditions.
The plant is characterized by its large, heart-shaped leaves with toothed edges that can grow up to 8 inches across. The foliage is often more visually striking than the flowers, making it a good choice for ground cover. The stems typically exhibit a red-purple color. The seeds are brown, featuring 7 to 12 ribbed cypselae, up to 4.5 mm long, with a tawny, bristly pappus attached for wind dispersal. These cypselae are elongated and narrow in shape.
The root system is fibrous and includes long, rhizomatous roots. Companion plants for Large-leafed Aster include ferns, wild strawberries, Jacob's ladder, and wild sarsaparilla. This plant is deer-resistant, but not resistant to rabbits. Clumps should be divided in spring when new growth emerges.
Historically, the roots of this plant have been used as a remedy for blood-related issues, headaches, and as a laxative.
Large-leafed Aster (Eurybia macrophylla) is a perennial wildflower native to Eastern North America, including Wisconsin. It is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Flowering stems reach a height of 1 to 2 feet, topped with violet blossoms that feature 9 to 20 thin violet rays surrounding a yellow center measuring 1.5 inches across. Although the flowers have no floral scent, they make excellent cut flowers and bloom from August to October. They provide nectar and pollen, attracting butterflies, bees, moths, and beetles. Additionally, they serve as host plants for the Pearl Crescent (Phyciodes tharos) and Silvery Checkerspot (Chlosyne nycteis) butterflies.
Large-leafed Aster prefers partial sun to shade and can reach a mature height of 1 to 3 feet with a spread of 2 to 3 feet. Its preferred soil ranges from dry sand to heavy clay, provided it is well-drained; it can tolerate moist or dry conditions.
The plant is characterized by its large, heart-shaped leaves with toothed edges that can grow up to 8 inches across. The foliage is often more visually striking than the flowers, making it a good choice for ground cover. The stems typically exhibit a red-purple color. The seeds are brown, featuring 7 to 12 ribbed cypselae, up to 4.5 mm long, with a tawny, bristly pappus attached for wind dispersal. These cypselae are elongated and narrow in shape.
The root system is fibrous and includes long, rhizomatous roots. Companion plants for Large-leafed Aster include ferns, wild strawberries, Jacob's ladder, and wild sarsaparilla. This plant is deer-resistant, but not resistant to rabbits. Clumps should be divided in spring when new growth emerges.
Historically, the roots of this plant have been used as a remedy for blood-related issues, headaches, and as a laxative.