Aster alpinus ('Dark Beauty') 'DUNKLE SCHÖNE' Alpine aster
size/type
low perennial,low perennial
usual height
0,2-0,2m
usual width
0,3-0,4m
leaves
deciduous broadleaf
colour of leaves
flowers
showy
colour of flowers
blooming time
May-June
location
full sun
USDA zone (lowest)
5 (down to -29°C)
winter protection
for zone 5+6
for zone 7
categorized
Alpine aster is a dwarf perennial from European Alps with some subspecies occurring in North America where it is considered endangered. It produces single stem flowers from late spring until early summer.
Description of the plant:
Dunkle Schöne is a German variety of Alpine aster commonly known in English speaking markets as Dark Beauty. It bears large, daisy-like flowers with deep violet ray florets and yellow discs on short, 20-25 cm tall stems. Leaves are light to mid green, narrowly lanceolate and form a nice clump. It makes a nice cut flower.Alpine aster grows in poor, well-drained soils of neutral to alkaline pH (6-7.5). It will cope with clay and heavier soil, too, but will grow slower. It must have direct sunlight and does not demand extra watering. It will look great at the front of a perennial border or placed among small shrubs. Divide large clumps every 3-4 years for profuse flowering. Hardy to min. -28°C (USDA zone 5).
Last update 28-01-2014
