Symphyotrichum pilosum facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Symphyotrichum pilosum |
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| S. pilosum var. pilosum | |
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| S. pilosum var. pringlei | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Symphyotrichum
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| Species: |
pilosum
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| Synonyms | |
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Aster pilosus Willd. |
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The Hairy White Oldfield Aster (scientific name: Symphyotrichum pilosum) is a cool plant that grows from the ground each year. It is also known as the Frost Aster. This plant is part of the big aster family, which includes many flowers like daisies and sunflowers.
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Where Does the Hairy White Oldfield Aster Grow?
This plant is originally from North America. You can find it growing in many parts of Canada and the United States. It is very common and grows in lots of different places.
Natural Homes of the Frost Aster
The Hairy White Oldfield Aster likes to live in open areas. These include wide-open prairies, sunny open woodlands, and rocky outcrops. It also loves places where the ground has been disturbed. This means you often see it in sunny, weedy spots like roadsides or old fields.
Understanding the Hairy White Oldfield Aster's Family
Scientists have found that there are two main types, or varieties, of this plant. It can be tricky to figure out the exact family tree for these plants. This is because they sometimes have extra sets of chromosomes (called polyploidy). They can also mix with other plants (called hybridization).
Two Main Types of S. pilosum
- S. pilosum var. pilosum: This type has fuzzy stems and leaves. It is very common and often grows like a weed in many places.
- S. pilosum var. pringlei: This type has stems and leaves that are mostly smooth. You can find it in special places like alvars (grassy areas over limestone), cedar glades, and sand dunes.
Growing the Hairy White Oldfield Aster in Gardens
Some people like to grow these plants in their gardens. The Symphyotrichum pilosum var. pringlei variety is quite popular. It has even won a special award!
Award-Winning Aster Varieties
The Symphyotrichum pilosum var. pringlei and a special garden version called ‘Ochtendgloren’ have both received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. This award means they are excellent plants for gardens.
