PerennialsAster novae-angliae
New England Aster
New England Aster is the queen of the autumn garden, producing masses of purple to pink daisy-like flowers. From September to October, this vigorous perennial creates a colourful display buzzing with butterflies and bees. An indispensable plant for late-season colour.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun
- Water
- Medium
- Height
- 80–150 cm
- Spread
- 60–90 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 4–8
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Evergreen
- No
- Flower colors
- purple, pink
- Wildlife value
- bees, butterflies
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in full sun in moisture-retentive, fertile soil. Water regularly during dry periods. Apply compost or organic fertiliser in spring. Support tall cultivars with plant stakes to prevent flopping.
Pruning tips
Cut back by half in mid-June (the 'Chelsea chop') for bushier growth and more flowers. Cut down to ground level after flowering in November. Divide every three years to maintain vigour.
Good companions
PerennialsRudbeckia fulgida
Black-eyed Susan
Black-eyed Susan blooms from July through October with radiant golden-yellow petals surrounding a dark brown center. The plant is virtually indestructible, spreads gradually, and suits large borders and prairie-style gardens. After flowering, the seed heads provide food for birds.
Ornamental grassesMiscanthus sinensis
Chinese Silver Grass
Chinese Silver Grass is a striking ornamental grass that adds structure to any garden with its tall plumes and gracefully arching leaves. Silvery-white plumes appear from August to October and catch the autumn and winter light beautifully. The dried grass remains attractive throughout winter.
PerennialsSedum spectabile
Stonecrop
Stonecrop is a succulent perennial with thick, grey-green leaves and flat pink flower heads from August to October. The plant is extremely drought-tolerant and attracts large numbers of butterflies and bees in late summer. The dried flower heads provide striking winter interest.