Description
Boltonia – False Chamomile –
There are about 8 species of perennials, in this genus. They occur in sunny, moist sites in Eastern and Central North America with one species from temperate Asia. Erect, hairless stems branch toward the apex and bear alternate, narrowly lance shaped, stalkless, sometimes finely toothed, blue green or mid green leaves. Small but numerous flowerheads consist of 100’s of white, lilac, violet purple or pinkish purple flowers with yellow centers. Grow in a border or wild garden, or for cut flowers.
Grow in fertile, moist but well drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Divide every 2 or 3 years in early spring.
Prone to anthracnose, rust, powdery mildew, and leaf spot.
B. asteroides ‘Snowbank’ – This upright perennial grows 6′ feet tall and 3′ feet wide. From strong stems it carries inversely lance shaped, finely toothed, slightly glaucous, blue-green leaves, 5″ long, becoming greener as they age. From late summer to mid autumn it bears inflorescences of many panicles, 4-6″ across, of flowerheads, 3/4″ across with pure white petals and yellow centers.
Zones 4-8
