Aster x frikartii Monch

Description

Pot size: 3 litre pot

Plant size after 3 years: 0.9 metres high, 0.6 metres spread

Foliage or flower colour: Dark green foliage, lavender-blue flowers flowering from July to October

Suitable for USDA plant hardiness Zones

Aster x frikartii ‘Mönch’ is suitable for USDA Hardiness Zones 5 to 8. This means it can tolerate minimum winter temperatures from -20°F (-29°C) to 10°F (-12°C). It thrives in regions with cold winters and warm summers.

GardenAdvice notes

Aster x frikartii ‘Mönch’ is a hybrid perennial in the family Asteraceae, resulting from a cross between Aster amellus and Aster thomsonii by Swiss nurseryman Carl Ludwig Frikart. Named after the Mönch mountain in Switzerland, this plant is admired for its prolific, long-lasting display of large lavender-blue, daisy-like flowers with yellow centers. Its bloom period extends from midsummer well into autumn, providing late-season color and attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Ideal for borders, cottage gardens, and wildlife gardens, ‘Mönch’ has an upright habit and robust growth. It makes excellent cut flowers and can add a splash of colour to any floral arrangement.

Soil type

Aster x frikartii ‘Mönch’ thrives in well-draining, moderately fertile soil rich in organic matter. It prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soils with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Incorporating compost or well-rotted manure into the soil before planting can enhance fertility and improve drainage.

Location and aspect

Plant ‘Mönch’ in a location that receives full sun for optimal flowering, though it can tolerate light shade. A sheltered spot is preferable to protect it from strong winds. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal diseases such as powdery mildew.

Pest and disease problems

Aster x frikartii ‘Mönch’ can be susceptible to powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions or if the plant is overcrowded. To prevent this:

• Ensure good air circulation by spacing plants appropriately.
• Avoid overhead watering, which can promote fungal growth.
• Remove affected foliage promptly if powdery mildew appears.
• Apply a fungicide labelled for powdery mildew as a preventative or treatment if necessary.

Slugs and snails may feed on young shoots, particularly in spring. Control these pests by:

• Using organic slug pellets or copper barriers.
• Encouraging natural predators like birds and hedgehogs.
• Setting up beer traps or using diatomaceous earth around the base of the plant.

How to propagate

Propagation is best achieved by division or softwood cuttings.

Division:

• Timing: Early spring before new growth starts or early autumn after flowering.
• Method:
  • Carefully dig up the entire plant.
  • Use a sharp spade or knife to divide the clump into smaller sections, ensuring each has healthy roots and shoots.
  • Replant the divisions immediately in prepared soil.
  • Water well and keep the soil moist until established.

Softwood cuttings:

• Timing: Late spring to early summer.
• Method:
  • Take 7–10 cm (3–4 inch) cuttings from healthy, non-flowering shoots.
  • Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder.
  • Insert the cuttings into pots filled with a moist, well-draining mix of peat and perlite or sand.
  • Cover with a plastic bag or place in a propagator to maintain humidity.
  • Keep in a warm, bright area out of direct sunlight.
  • Roots should develop in 4–6 weeks, after which you can pot the new plants individually.

Pruning and maintenance

• Deadheading: Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming.
• Seasonal pruning: In late autumn or early spring, cut back the stems to ground level to tidy the plant and promote vigorous new growth.
• Division: Divide overcrowded clumps every 3–4 years to maintain plant health and vigour.

Aster x frikartii ‘Mönch’ will be a delightful addition to your garden, offering vibrant colour and attracting beneficial pollinators throughout its long flowering season.

Please note our plants in most instances are delivered by our own GardenAdvice expert gardeners. Our standard UK delivery charge is £25 or if you are a MyGardenTeam member delivery is free

Our plants are guaranteed for 24 months for more details Click Here