Gerald L. Klingaman
Family
Asteraceae
Botanical Name
AMPELASTER carolinianus
Plant Common Name
Climbing Aster
General Description
Climbing aster is so named for its very long, arching stems which mingle among neighboring shrubs and other vegetation for support. Native to coastal regions of the southeastern United States, this woody subshrub is found naturally at the edges of swamps and wet woods. It is grown in gardens for its showy, late-season display of fragrant, lavender-pink flowers.
The rambling, branched stems of climbing aster are covered with light gray fuzz. They may reach as much as 12 feet (4 meters) in length, and do not die back to the ground in winter. Pointed, medium green, oblong leaves are borne alternately along the stems. Large panicles of pale purple, yellow-centered daisies appear in late summer to early autumn, and are pollinated by bees, butterflies and other insects.
For best performance, provide climbing aster with full to part sun and rich, moist soil. Its stems may be tied to a trellis, or allowed to scramble among roses, shrubs and sturdy perennials. This unique perennial is a great source of fall color for mixed borders or wildflower gardens, and its blossoms make fine, long-lasting cut flowers.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
9 - 1
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USDA Hardiness Zone
6 - 9
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Sunset Zone
5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
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Plant Type
Perennial
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun
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Bloom Time
Late Summer, Early Fall, Fall
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Native To
Southeastern United States
Growing Conditions
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Soil pH
Neutral
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Soil Drainage
Average
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Soil type
Clay, Loam, Sand
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Tolerances
Wet Site
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Growth Rate
Medium
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Water Requirements
Average Water
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Habit
Vining/Climbing
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Showy
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Flower Color
Light Pink, Lavender
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Foliage Color (Spring)
Green
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Foliage Color (Summer)
Green
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Foliage Color (Fall)
Green
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Fragrant Flowers
Yes
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Fragrant Fruit
No
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Fragrant Foliage
No
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
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Flower Petal Number
Single
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Repeat Bloomer
No
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Showy Fruit
No
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Edible Fruit
No
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Showy Foliage
No
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Foliage Texture
Medium
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Foliage Sheen
Matte
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Evergreen
No
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Showy Bark
No
