Species New England aster
purple flowers with orange center, green leaves and stems

New England aster

Symphyotrichum novae-angliae

The New England aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae) is a native perennial plant found in North American meadows. It produces blooms of deep purple and pink disk-shaped flowers, surrounded by a fringe of lavender and white petals, all surrounded by bright green foliage. The plant is 1-3 feet tall and likes full sun and moist, well-drained soils. It blooms in August to September and attracts butterflies and bees. Additionally, its dried flowers provide a late-season nectar source for birds. Plant New England asters in larger groups for better visual impact.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Division,Root Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation,Stem Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

Deep pink-purple Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Soil:

Sandy Loamy Clay Humus

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

watering

New England aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae) should be watered deeply every 7-10 days, or as often as needed. Soil should be kept evenly moist and never be allowed to dry out. In general, it’s best to err on the side of watering too much rather than too little. Try to use lukewarm water and avoid over- or underwatering. During summer months, this plant may need more frequent watering. Be careful to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, as poor drainage may lead to root rot.

sunlight

New England asters require direct sunlight for about 6-8 hours a day in order to thrive. An ideal location for the plant would be 1 that receives several hours of morning and late afternoon/early evening sunlight, as this will promote optimal growth and flower production. Using an area that receives sunlight for the majority of the day may cause the plant to become stressed, but New England asters can withstand some extended sunlight. Hot midday sun should be avoided as it can produce too much stress on the plant and inhibit its growth.

pruning

New England aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae) should be pruned in early to mid-spring (March-May) before flowering. Pruning should involve selectively removing only the dead and damaged stems and foliage and deadheading of flowers. It should only be pruned to 1-third of its height to maintain it's natural size, shape, and form. Avoid pruning too late in the season since this can prevent blooming. Always use clean, sharp tools when pruning and ensure to sterilize them between plants to prevent spreading of any diseases.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

New England asters typically start flowering in late summer or early fall, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

New England asters typically start flowering in late summer or early fall, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map