Bloom Color

Pink

Interesting Notes

This common wild flower is one of the largest and prettiest in the genus, but seldom seen, having been superseded by improved cultivars. The entire, 4-5" long leaves are numerous and very hairy. This species and a few others similar
to it may be separated from many others by looking at the base of the leaves. The two basal lobes of the leaves clasp the stem, poking out on either side. The flowers are 1 ½'-2" across and consist of 40-50 ray flowers surrounding a yellow center. The flowers are excellent for cutting and last longer in water than those of A. novi-belgii, New York aster. My colleague, Chris Hussey, found out the hard way that harvesting the hairy stems of New England asters can cause a serious skin rash on the hands and arms. Chris recommends gloves and a long-sleeved shirt when tackling these fellows. Allan Armitage

One of the tallest and most magnificent of the asters. Bright blue to purple flowers with orange centers cover the upper half of the plant, and serve as an important late season nectar source for a variety of butterflies. Very fast growing, reaching three to six feet. Requires fertile soil with adequate moisture. Prairie Nursery

Growing and Maintenance Tips

Grow in full sun in average to moist soil.