x Solidaster luteus 'LEMORE'

Solidaster is an attractive interspecific (intergeneric) hybrid between golden rod (solidago) and aster. It was made in France, in Leonard Lille Nursery in Lyon in 1910. One would expect that after such a long time it would be commonly available which, regretfully, is not true. Unless you come across a good perennial nursery where they appreciate heritage plants it is missing from modern garden centre shelves. Pity. Because when you are, for example, creating a countryside landscape or a meadow-like perennial bed, solidaster offers a more airy atmosphere as opposed to golden rod, yet profusion of flowers.

Lemore is a more compact solidaster variety producing 60-80 cm tall, well branched stems with terminal composite inflorescences. They are composed of numerous, tiny, daisy-like flowers which open rich yellow and mature to pale banana yellow colour, and look their best during the phase when you can see both the colours together. Flowering begins in August and lasts for 4-6 weeks. Leaves are mid green, narrowly lanceolate, and may be prone to powdery mildew in too dry soil.

Solidaster, like both its parents, is quite soil adaptable. It will take some clay, too, but for best results grow it in moderately fertile soil in full sun. It is hardy to minimum of -30°C (USDA zone 5), but is believed to take harder frost. It makes a great cut flower with a long vase life.

Last update 26-09-2019