Unique Flower Designs: September’s Aster

September’s birth flower, the Aster, is a delicate flower that enhances any bouquets or garden. Used as a frilly filler in florists’ unique flower designs, the Aster is known for its daisy-like petals and fringed texture.

MEANINGS & USES
The exact origin of the name Aster is debated. Some say the name for these beautiful flowers is direct from Greek mythology: Asters were said to have grown from the tears of the Goddess Asterea. Others say they were named for their abundant growing patterns (like the night sky) and their star-like shape.

Asters have long been given to symbolize love, daintiness and afterthought. Gentlemen and ladies in the past used to present them to people they hoped to draw affection from. Placed on the graves of French soldiers, Asters were used as a symbol of a better life to come. They can also be used to symbolize a 20th Wedding Anniversary and are a wonderful gift in a bouquet for any occasion.

The petals of the Aster used to be smoked to ward off evil serpents, but could also be used to help with headaches, colds, back pain and muscle spasms.

CULTIVATION
Asters are most often used now as filler in bouquets and as a delicate accents in gardens. They grow best in rich, wet soil in direct sun – partial shade, and should be thinned and replanted every two years. Because Asters grow in thick bunches, they can be separated and replanted in gardens in the spring. Asters bloom from mid summer – early fall and are a perfect choice for a fall wedding bouquet.

The Aster grows in over 600 species and can also be found in a variety of colors: white, pink, lavender, red, purple. They are a popular choice for gardens due to their ability to attract butterflies, bees and birds. They grow to be less than a foot tall and are a good choice for filler or accent flowers in gardens.

Perhaps the Greeks had it right, Asters may have grown from a goddess’ tears… or perhaps September's birth flower is just are simply a lovely, delicate choice for any unique flower design or a gardener’s delight.

Lilly Gordon is a freelance web writer and publisher. She is an avid gardener and is fascinated with floriculture and Calgary Flowers.