SafePlants

Aster tongolensis: A Colorful Addition to Your Garden

Aster tongolensis, also known as East Indies Aster, is a charming perennial that brings a splash of color to gardens, particularly with its varieties like 'Berggarten' and 'Wartburg Star'.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Aster tongolensis Franch.
• Common Names: East Indies Aster
• Family: Asteraceae (also referred to as Compositae)
• Synonyms:
  • Aster subcaerulea S. Moore
  • A. tongolensis f. glabratus Diels
  • A. tongolensis f. humilis Diels

Distribution and Habitat

Aster tongolensis is native to western China and the Himalayas. It thrives in environments like Qinghai High Alpines and is adaptable for gardens across the UK and Europe.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Aster tongolensis is a mat-forming or creeping perennial.
• 'Berggarten' forms a mat of dark green, softly hairy, elliptic leaves.
• 'Wartburg Star' grows upright, reaching 40-60 cm in height with a 20-30 cm spread. It forms a tight, ground-hugging mound.
• The plant has thick, almost leafless stems.
• Flowers are daisy-like, typically lavender blue with yellow centers.

Cultivars

• 'Berggarten'
• 'Wartburg Star' (also known as 'Wartburgstern')
• 'Napsbury'

Ecological Role

Aster tongolensis is valued in gardens and is suitable for rock gardens. Its flowers attract pollinators, enhancing the biodiversity of the garden.

Quirky Facts

• The cultivar 'Wartburg Star' is described as an exceptionally heavy blooming variety that is seldom offered commercially.

Further Information

• Information can be found at the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).
• Herbarium specimens are held at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
• Detailed information, including taxonomic data, can be found in the GRIN Taxonomy checklist and the Integrated Taxonomic Information System (ITIS).