Description
Symphyotrichum novi-belgii (syn. Aster novi-belgii)
CT DR P
Soil: Rich, Well-drained
Moisture: Average to Medium-Wet
Light: Full Sun
Plant Height: 3 to 4 feet
Plant Width: 2 to 3 feet
Pests: Susceptible to powdery mildew
Landscape Value: Great for perennial borders, butterfly gardens, rock gardens, rain gardens, shorelines, seaside gardens, and naturalized areas.
Sturdy, clump-forming, branching perennial with gray-green leaves that clasp the stems. Showy sprays of blue-violet to pink (occasionally white) daisy-like flowers bloom late summer to mid-fall. Stems should be pruned to 6” in late spring or early summer to encourage a bushier habit, stronger stems, and shorter height, if desired. Spreads by rhizomes (underground stems) and can form colonies. Also, readily self-seeds, but can be cut back after flowering to reduce self-seeding. Plants should be divided periodically; otherwise, plants may die out in the center. Requires good air circulation to reduce chances of foliar disease. Use appropriate spacing with companion plants to limit overcrowding. Attracts butterflies and large numbers of native bees. Host plant for Pearl Crescent butterflies. Tolerates clay soil, sandy soil, poor soil, wet soil (if well-drained), moderate salinity, semi-shade, and light frost.
1-gallon pot
Photo credits:
North Carolina State Extension (photo by C.T. Johnassson)
