Aster amellus ‘Rosa Erfullung’ (Italian Aster)

Vigorous, Aster amellus ‘Rosa Erfullung’ or ‘Pink Zenith’ (Italian Aster) is a standout Aster variety that produces an abundance of very pretty sprays of bright purple-pink flowers, 2 in. across (5 cm). Blooming for weeks from early to mid-fall, this compact fall Aster is resistant to powdery mildew. Native to Europe, it is easy to grow, long-lived and provides an outstanding show in the late-season garden.

• Fast-growing to 20 in. tall and wide (50 cm), its flowering sprays are held upright and its woody stems are clad with oval, dark green leaves.
• Thrives in full sun in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Moderately fertile, alkaline soils are preferred. Provide good air circulation to avoid foliage diseases such as powdery mildew. Drought tolerant!
• A vital ingredient of late summer and fall borders, cottage gardens, prairies, or butterfly gardens. Asters are also valued for the excellent quality of their cut flowers.
• Asters are a must if you are trying to attract birds or butterflies, as they are a great source of nectar.
• Pinch back stems before early summer to promote bushiness and produce more flowers.
• Divide every 3-4 years in spring.

Aster Amellus, commonly known as Italian Aster, belongs to the Asteraceae family, including yarrows, chrysanthemums, and sunflowers. The Genus Aster contains over 600 species and thousands of hybrid varieties, providing a wide choice to pick from, as they all vary in habit, height, flower color, leaf shape, and growing conditions. As opposed to the New England Aster (Aster novae-angliae) or the New York Aster (Aster novi-belgii), Aster amellus doesn’t produce tall, pyramidal plants but the size and beauty of its blossoms, coupled with its neat and compact habit, make this Aster among the most desirable of all Fall Asters.