Asters (Asteraceae)

The most distinct characteristic of this family is their typical star-like inflorescence supported by involucral bracts, which gives the appearance of a single flower. This characteristic inflorescence is also referenced by the other name of this family - Compositae. Asters are one of the two most numerous plant families (along with orchids) and probably include more than 30,000 species. Thanks to this richness, they are very well-known and we cannot imagine a botanical garden without them. 

The most prominent within our assortment of outdoor perennials are North American species, which are part of the North American Flora exposition (especially the prairie). In most of our expositions, visitors will also find several dozen flowerbed perennials. They can encounter diverse species and varieties from the following genera: Aster, sneezeweeds (Helenium), goldenrods (Solidago), sunflowers (Helianthus), calliopsis (Coreopsis), Ratibida, Echinacea, Rudbeckia and many others. Amongst newer genera, there are laserworts (Silphium) and also plants obtained from our expedition to the USA in 2016. These are for example: Heliomeris multiflora, which has remarkable number of big, brightly yellow flowers; the perennial subshrub Ageratina occidentalis or the dry-loving subshrub Ericameria nauseosa. 

The Czech flora also contains many representatives of this family. Some are very rare and critically endangered, so their active protection is very important. Currently, efforts have been made to rescue the last Czech population of Tephroseris aurantiaca.

Furthermore, we would like to develop the collection by focusing on selected geographical areas. At the same time, we will try to obtain representatives of unusual subfamilies from tropical and subtropical areas that are still missing in the garden. For North American species located in the North American exposition, we plan to gradually expand their assortment with plants from known locations and also with species suitable for horticulture. We want to focus on drought-resistant prairie plants, such as the blazing stars (Liatris) or Ratibida. 

We are going to further develop the collection of perennials and endeavour to find and maintain high-quality older varieties. The most intensive development should be focused on varieties from the following genera: Aster (in the original, broader sense), sneezeweeds (Helenium), Rudbeckia and Echinacea, Leucanthemum and perennial chrysanths (Chrysanthemum).