Aster novae-angliae (New England Aster)

One of the tallest and most spectacular of the Asters, Aster novae-angliae (New England Aster) is a robust, upright perennial boasting a profusion of showy daisy-like flowers, 1.5 in. wide (4 cm), with rose-purple rays surrounding sunny yellow centers. Blooming for weeks from late summer until frost, the blossoms are borne at the tips of sturdy stems clad with hairy dark green leaves. The blossoms are visited by a variety of pollinating insects, including bee flies, bumblebees, miner bees, and leaf-cutter bees. Butterfly caterpillars, moth caterpillars, and many types of plant and lace bugs feed on the leaves and stems. New England Aster makes a substantial statement in the late-season garden. Native to North America, it is easy to grow, long-lived, brings cheerful fall color, and is a great source of nectar for butterflies. On cloudy days or at night, the flowers droop and close. As soon as the sun shines again, they pursue their glorious display and will do so for weeks.

• Grows up to 3-6 ft. tall (90-180 cm) and 2-3 ft. wide (60-90 cm). Will self-seed if grown in ideal conditions.
• Thrives in full sun in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Moist, rich soils are preferred. Provide good air circulation to avoid foliage diseases such as powdery mildew.
• Vital ingredient of late summer and fall borders, cottage gardens, prairies, or butterfly gardens. New England 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. Plants are fairly unpalatable to browsing deer and rabbits.
• Pinch back stems before midsummer to promote bushiness, produce a greater number of flowers, and control the plant height (to avoid flopping by the plant). Cutting back after flowering will prevent undesired self-seeding.
• May be affected by powdery mildew. It should be divided every several years to keep the plant growing vigorously.
• Sow seeds outside in the fall or provide cold stratification. It can also be propagated by softwood cuttings taken in late spring or division in the spring.
• Native to eastern North America.