Symphyotrichum novae-angliae (L.) G.L. Nesom

New England Aster

Herb

Perennial

Vascular

New England Aster is a native perennial member of the Sunflower family (Asteraceae). In Alabama, it is primarily found in the Blackbelt region. New England Aster grows in prairies, in cedar glades, on chalk outcrops, and in rocky woods in areas with basic soils. It grows to a height of three to four feet from a woody rhizome. Each rootstock may produce three or more thick hairy stems. The leaves are clasping, lance shaped, with cilia along the margins. The flowers are produced in heads. The ray flowers are numerous (up to one hundred per head), and are pink, blue, or purple in color. The disc flowers are yellow. Flowering occurs in October and November. The fruit is an achene. New England Aster is often available as plants or seed from wildflower nurseries and seed companies. Numerous cultivars are available that vary in height, amount of branching, and color of the ray flowers. New England Aster does well in full sun, and rich well-draining soil. It can be planted at the back of perennial beds and along forest edges.—A. Diamond

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Native

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