Aster Facts
Aster Facts
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Interesting Aster Facts: |
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Aster has erect stem with woody base. It can reach from 8 inches to 8 feet in height, depending on the species. |
Aster produces simple leaves that can be long, thin or lanceolate-shaped. Leaves of some species are serrated on the edges. They are dark green colored and alternately arranged on the stem. |
Aster develops flower head that consists of 300 small flowers located centrally and numerous petals (ray florets) on the periphery. Miniature flowers in the center of the flower head are always yellow, while surrounding petals can be white, purple, blue, lavender, red or pink colored. |
Yellow-colored, miniature tubular flowers contain both types of reproductive organs (bisexual florets). Beautifully colored petals, or ray florets, on the periphery of the flower head are usually sterile (do not contain reproductive structures). |
Aster blooms from July to October. Fragrant, colorful flowers attract numerous bees, butterflies and flies, that are responsible for the pollination of this plant. |
Fruit of aster is achene equipped with wings which facilitate dispersal of seed by wind. |
Aster propagates via seed or division of the stem. Seed starts to germinate 15 to 30 days after planting. |
Name "aster" originates from Greek word "aster" which means "star". Name refers to the star-like shape of flower heads. |
Asters are also known as "frost flowers" because florists often use these flowers during the autumn and winter for the preparation of various floral arrangements. |
Asters are ideal present for the people born in September and for the people that celebrate 20th wedding anniversary. |
Aster symbolizes patience, love, good luck and daintiness. |
All participants of the Hungarian revolution that took place at the beginning of the 20th century in Budapest were wearing asters. This event is also known as "Aster revolution" today. |
Flowers of aster were smoked in the past due to widespread belief that smoke of this plant protects against evil spirits. |
Flowers of some aster species are used in treatment of migraine, common cold, muscle spasms and sciatica. |
Most species of aster are perennial plants (life span: more than 2 years), and only few species are annual (life span: one year) or biennial (life span: two years). |
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