September Flower Spotlight - The Aster
Posted by Enchanted Florist on 14th Sep 2015
Asters are the September birth flower and are also often used to celebrate the 20th wedding anniversary. Asters stand for love, patience, daintiness, elegance, refinement and can signify new beginnings.
Botanist Carl Von Linnaeus gave these flowers the name Aster from the derived Greek word star, because of their starlike shape. Sometimes known as l’oeil de Christ or "Eye of Christ" in France or "Starwort" in England and Germany, they are still known by the simple name Aster almost worldwide. There are more than 175 species of Aster in North America and more than 600 species worldwide. Historically, asters were placed on the graves of fallen French soldiers to signify afterthought and fidelity.
These gorgeous perennial wildflowers of the daisy family bloom in abundance late summer through fall, and are very popular in fall arrangements. Asters have 1-2 inch blossoms with a yellow cushion like center that consists of about 300 tiny flowers. Ray petals which are actually separate flowers shoot out from that center. The leaves are usually dark green, long and narrow like the ray petals.
According to Fine Gardening: Asters are the grande finale to the perennial garden, displaying vibrant fall colors in shades of pink, purple, blue, and white. They’re also one of the last great feeding opportunities for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. For gardeners, it’s a two-for-one deal: beautiful blooms and a flurry of attractive wildlife.
Gardeners Net says Asters have sturdy stalks that make them good candidates for flower vases and other arrangements. For smaller varieties, use a small container or vase and cut stem a couple of inches long. Bunch up a variety of colors for an eye-appealing arrangement. Add a small sprig or two of Baby's Breath.
For more information on Asters or for help finding just the right fall arrangements for your needs check out Enchanted Florist or contact us here.
Enchanted Florist
4416 Fairmont #104
Pasadena, TX 77504
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