New England Aster, Symphyotrichum novae-angliae

New England aster is one of the very last flowers to bloom on the prairie. We know that once we collect the seeds from this plant the season is over. But what a way to go out! New England asters grow up to five feet tall in moist soils and produce a prolific display of stunning purple flowers. They can be pruned back earlier in the season for garden situations where you’d like a shorter, bushier plant.

As one of the last flowers blooming in the fall, you’ll see it being frequently visited by many pollinators, including monarch butterflies, stocking up on their final reserves.

Life Cycle: Perennial
Size: 5 feet
Sun: Full, Partial
Soil: Wet, Medium-Wet, Medium, Medium-Dry
Bloom Time: August-October
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