New England Aster

New England Aster

Symphyotrichum novae-angliae

A bold and vibrant native wildflower that brings deep purple color to meadows and open fields at the close of the growing season. New England Aster grows tall with sturdy stems and masses of star-shaped blooms with golden centers. Flowering from late summer into autumn, it creates sweeping waves of purple that become a magnet for bees and butterflies preparing for winter.

 

 

A Wildflower of Meadows and Prairie Edges

New England Aster grows naturally in moist meadows, prairie edges, open fields, and along roadsides where it receives full sun and moderate soil moisture. Its tall structure and vibrant flowers make it one of the most important late-season species for pollinator gardens and ecological restoration.

Growing Information

Height: 3–6 ft

Spread: 2–3 ft

Light: Full sun

Soil: Average to moist soils

Hardiness: Zone 3–8

Growth Rate: Moderate to fast

Best planted in meadows, prairie restorations, rain gardens, and pollinator gardens where it can form large drifts of fall color among native grasses.

Ecological Importance

 

Provides critical late-season nectar for bees and butterflies

Supports migrating monarch butterflies preparing for their journey

Adds height and structure to fall meadow ecosystems

Strengthens biodiversity in pollinator habitats

Larval host for
• Pearl Crescent Butterfly (Phyciodes tharos)
• Silvery Checkerspot (Chlosyne nycteis)
• Wavy-lined Emerald Moth (Synchlora aerata)
• Harris’s Three-spot Moth (Harrisimemna trisignata)

Planting to Protect
Restoring to Thrive ?
Origin Native Plants ?

3.5 inch Pots