New England Aster
Herbaceous perennial reaching 90-150 cm tall. Features lance-shaped, clasping leaves and large clusters of violet-purple (sometimes pink or white) daisy-like flowers blooming August-October. Prefers moist, well-drained soils and full sun. Attracts numerous pollinators, especially monarchs. Suitable for meadows, rain gardens, and back of borders. May need staking in rich soils. Native to eastern and central North America.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: Purple (sometimes Pink or White)
Bloom Time: Late-Summer to Fall
Sun Requirements: Sun to Part-Sun
Moisture: Moist-Drained
Phenology: Growth emerges May. Leaves fully developed by July. Purple flowers appear September-October. Seeds with white tufts mature late October.
Wildlife Value: Premier fall nectar plant for butterflies and bees; seeds eaten by birds; provides cover for beneficial insects
Habit Over Time: Creates robust clumps that spread steadily through rhizomes. While it can form extensive colonies over time, the strong stems emerge with enough space between them to allow other plants to grow in association. The tall, architectural stems provide good structure through winter.
Height: Tall (3-6 feet)