Aster linosyris ‘Golden Dust’ (21/09/2013, Kew Gardens, London)
Position: Full sun
Flowering period: Late summer
Soil: Moist, well drained
Eventual Height: 70cm
Eventual Spread: 30cm
Hardiness: 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a
Family: Asteraceae
Aster linosyris ‘Golden Dust’ is a deciduous herbaceous perennial with an erect habit. Its mid green leaves are lanceolate (almost needle like) with entire margins, up to 10cm long and 4mm broad. Its yellow flowers appear as simple corymbs. Its fruit is an achene.
The species Aster linosyris, commonly known as Goldilocks Aster, is native to east, south and central Europe (including UK). In its native habitat it grows in open grassy meadows and maritime locations. Aster linosyris is synonymous with Linosyris vulgaris.
The etymological root of the binomial name Aster is derived from the Greek asthr meaning ‘star’, in reference to its flower. Linosyris is an old generic name for yellow flax, given by Mathias de l’Obel (1538 – 1616), a physician and botanist.
The landscape architect may find Aster linosyris ‘Golden Dust’ useful as part of a prairie type planting scheme. Once established this perennial s drought tolerant.
Ecologically, Aster linosyris ‘Golden Dust’ flowers are attractive to pollinating insects.
Aster linosyris ‘Golden Dust’ Flower (21/09/2013, Kew Gardens, London)
Aster linosyris ‘Golden Dust’ prefers moist, fertile, well-drained soils. It prefers a neutral to alkali pH of soil.
Aster linosyris ‘Golden Dust’ requires little maintenance. To keep a tidy appearance this perennial may be pruned before growth starts in spring.
