Aster exilis var. australis Plant Care

Aster exilis var. australis (Symphyotrichum subulatum var. parviflorum) belongs to the Asteraceae family within the Symphyotrichum genus. Aster exilis var. australis is native to Mexico, the Caribbean, most of Central America, Ecuador, and the southwestern United States. Aster exilis var. australis is also known as Aster flexicaulis, Aster linifolius, Aster subulatus.

Aster exilis var. australis displays an upright, bushy perennial growth habit, reaching up to 3 ft tall with a spread of approximately 2 ft. Aster exilis var. australis produces daisy-like flowers in various colors like purple, blue, pink, and white.

Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.

Symphyotrichum subulatum var. parviflorum requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Aster exilis var. australis thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Symphyotrichum subulatum var. parviflorum grows best at temperatures of 50–80°F. Aster exilis var. australis prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.

Well-draining loamy soil with added compost for nutrients. Good drainage is essential for Aster exilis var. australis to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Aster exilis var. australis every 6 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.

Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Aster exilis var. australis can be propagated through division, stem cuttings. Similar propagation techniques also apply to pineywoods aster plant care, which shares the same genus.

See all plants toxic to cats and plants toxic to dogs.

Aster exilis var. australis is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, powdery mildew. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Aster exilis var. australis grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. It survives winters down to planting zone 12a. Aster exilis var. australis is native to Mexico, the Caribbean, most of Central America, Ecuador, and the southwestern United States. In cooler regions, grow Aster exilis var. australis as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.