Symphyotrichum novae-angliae (f. Aster novae-angliae)
The late blooms of the New England aster provides a welcome nectar source for the migrating Monarchs and many other butterflies and bees.
Easily identified by the hairy stem and clasping leaves, this aster reaches heights of 5 feet and stands out amongst the fall garden with spectacular color and texture. New England aster grows well in a variety of conditions, and so can be a bit thuggish if allowed to grow unchecked. Dead-heading the spent flowers can help keep this plant under control.
This perennial grows well alongside many goldenrods and other equally prolific growers. One of the nicest aspects of this aster is the wide variety of bloom colors, from purple, violet, lavender to all kinds of pinks. That is not a trait one sees often with straight species plants! Add this one to your cut flower garden for some real variety.
Source: grown from seed originally from Minnesota. Prairie Moon Nursery.
Symphyotrichum novae-angliae (New England aster)
details
SIZE AND POT INFORMATION: More details coming in May type: herbaceous perennial sun needs: full sun, part sun/part shade water needs: average, moist height: 5' plant spacing: 1/sq ft bloom time: August, September, October bloom color: purple good plant companions
black-eyed Susan, Culver's root, butterflyweed, goldenrod, turtlehead, cardinal flower, closed gentian, bee balm
special notes
salt tolerant. Some salt exposure should not be fatal to the plant but some leaf burning may still occur. deer resistant (please note that does not mean deer proof)