Plant Type

Perennial

 

Height Range

1-3'

 

Flower Color

Lavender

 

Flower Season

Summer, Fall

 

Leaf Color

Green

 

Bark Color

n/a

 

Fruit Color

n/a

 

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Full

 

Water

Low, Medium

 

Growth Rate

Moderate

 

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular

 

Soil Condition

Average, Rich, Poor, Well-drained, Dry

 

Soil pH

Neutral

 

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

English Cottage, Meadow, Mediterranean, Ranch

 

Accenting Features

Fall Color, Showy Flowers

 

Seasonal Interest

Summer, Fall

 

Location Uses

Perennial Border, Shrub Border, Foundation, Patio, Raised Planter, Walls / Fences

 

Special Uses

Cut Flowers, Mass Planting, Small Spaces

 

Attracts Wildlife

Butterflies

This species of aster is a summer blooming aster, with daisy-like flowers from mid-summer well into fall, frequently through several frosts. The species has flowers about 2 to 3 inches across with lavender rays and yellow centers. Plants are generally upright, and dense with oblong leaves that are slightly hairy. Plants grow about 2 to 3 feet tall and wide. 'Monch' and 'Wonder of Staffa' are named cultivars. Great color for the perennial border, shrub or foundation border, or in a more natural setting.

Grow in average, medium to dry, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Pinching back stems in late spring will lower overall plant height, but will also delay bloom onset and increase branches, increasing the number of blooms. A light winter mulch will help protect crowns. Cut stems to the ground in early spring before new growth appears. Wet soils in winter can be fatal.