Tatarian Aster (Aster Tataricus ‘Jindai’)

Tatarian Aster

Features and Characteristics

Aster tataricus, commonly called tatarian aster, is an erect, tall-growing species (to 6′) which seldom requires staking. Distinctive paddle-shaped, lower leaves are up to 24″ long and 6″ wide, but leaves are significantly smaller in size higher up on the plant. Small but abundant flowers (to 1″ across) with deep lavender to blue rays and yellow centers appear in flat-topped clusters in autumn. A late blooming aster that still looks fresh at time of first frost. Attractive to butterflies.

Genus name comes from the Latin word aster meaning star for the shape of the flowers.

‘Jin-Dai’ is a compact tartarian aster cultivar typically growing 3-4′ tall. Cultivar was discovered growing at the Jin-Dai Botanical Garden in Tokyo, Japan.

Care and Maintenance

Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soils in full sun. Divide every 3-4 years if needed to control growth. Plants can spread aggressively by rhizomes in optimum growing conditions.

Tatarian Aster (Aster Tataricus ‘Jindai’) Requirements

Hardiness zone	4 - 8
Sun light	Full Sun
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Medium

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Staking may be necessary if grown in moist, fertile soils.

This cultivar seldom needs summer pinching to control height or staking as long as it is grown in full sun.

Uses

A tall aster for the back of the border or for naturalizing in a wildflower area.

Tatarian Aster (Aster Tataricus ‘Jindai’) Details

Common name	Tatarian Aster
Botanical name	Aster Tataricus 'Jindai'
Plant type	Herbaceous Perennial
Family	Asteraceae
Hardiness zone	4 - 8
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Medium
Flower color	Purple Rays And Yellow Centers
Flowering period	September - Oc- Ber
Height	3 - 4 Ft.
Width	2 - 3 Ft.