Summary
With its conifer-like texture, clump forming habit and drought tolerance, Ionactis linariifolius is an unusual addition to the rock garden or xeric site. Plants produce numerous, erect wiry stems with densely arranged stiff, needle-like foliage. Stems terminate in clusters of 1” wide flowers, ranging in shades of lavender, blue-violet, or white with a central yellow disc that matures to a bronze-red. Stiff aster grows 12-20” tall and prefers full sun in a sandy to gravelly soil but will tolerate some shade and a moist, well drained soil. This long blooming perennial complements Salvia lyrata ‘Burgundy Bliss’, Liatris pilosa, Silene virginica and Helianthus porteri.
More Details
- Plant Type
perennial - Sun/Shade Conditions
filtered-shade, full-sun - Foliage Character
deciduous - Soil Moisture
average, dry, moist - Flowering Period
early-fall, late-summer, mid-fall - Soil PH
adaptable - Flower Color
blue, lavender, white - Summer Foliage Color
green - Fall Foliage Color
green - Fruit/Seed Color
tan
Additional Information
Flora of North America, UW Robert W. Freckmann Herbarium, Illinois Wildflower