Tartarian Aster

Aster tataricus

Physical Characteristics

Aster tataricus is a PERENNIAL growing to 2 m (6ft) by 1.2 m (4ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, beetles, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Japan, Korea, Siberia.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Young plant[105, 177]. No more details are given.

Medicinal Uses

Antibacterial Antifungal Antitussive Cancer Expectorant This species has been used for at least 2,000 years in traditional Chinese medicine. The root contains triterpenes and triterpene saponins, and is a stimulant expectorant herb for the bronchial system, helping to clear infections[238, 279]. It is antibacterial, antifungal, antitussive, expectorant and stimulant[176, 218, 238, 279]. It has an antibacterial action, inhibiting the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, Bacillus dysenteriae, B. typhi, Pseudomonas and Vibrio Proteus[176]. The root is taken internally in the treatment of chronic bronchitis and tuberculosis and is often used raw with honey in order to increase the expectorant effect[176, 238]. The root is harvested in the autumn and can be dried for later use[238]. The plant contains the triterpene epifriedelinol, which has shown anticancer activity, and is used as a folk cure for cancer[218, 279].

Known Hazards

None known