Tatarian Aster

Tatarian Aster
Aster tataricus 'Jin-dai'
(ASS-ter) (tat-TAR-ee-kus)
Synonyms: Tatarian Daisy, Tartarian Aster

If you don’t like big and somewhat coarse perennials this plant is probably not for you. Having grown both the species and this cultivar I have to say that 'Jin-dai' is superior in almost every way. It is shorter at 3 to 4 feet, compared to the 8 feet tall of the species and more compact and classy looking. Tatarian Aster is a great plant for the back of the border as its large green foliage provides a good backdrop to earlier blooming perennials and when it finally starts blooming very late (later than many species of Aster). It provides some nice color in the autumn season. It can also be used in the natural or woodland garden.

This perennial likes moist acidic soil and full sun although it can grow in part shade with reduced blooms and floppy stems. Since it is native to southern Siberia it is very hardy but likes good drainage during the winter. It can spread aggressively in the garden and precautions should be taken if that is not desired. This Aster is sterile and does not set seed so seedlings aren’t a problem.

Since it is almost the weekend here is a really big beer from the Big E. As good as this looked it was 10 am when this picture was taken so we didn’t sample any.