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New England Aster

Symphyotrichum novae-angliae

Great nectar source for migrating monarchs; for compact plants, cut back before July 4th

 

$3.00$285.00

For quantity discount pricing, request a quote.

Description

Symphyotrichum novae-angliae, commonly called New England Aster, is a native perennial forb (wildflower) which occurs in moist prairies, meadows, thickets, low valleys and stream banks. (formerly Aster novae-angliae)

Wildlife notes

The flowers are visited primarily by long-tongued bees, bee flies, butterflies, and skippers. Short-tongued bees and Syrphid flies also visit the flowers, but they collect pollen primarily and are non-pollinating. Among the long-tongued bees, are such visitors as bumblebees, honeybees, Miner bees, and large Leaf-Cutting bees. Cross-pollination by these insects is essential, otherwise the seeds will be infertile. The larvae of many moths feed on various parts of this and other asters. The seeds and leaves of this plant are eaten to a limited extent by the Wild Turkey, while deer, and rabbits occasionally browse on the foliage, sometimes eating the entire plant. However, New England Aster isn’t a preferred food source for these animals.

Forage notes

Livestock will eat this plant in its growing stage.

Landscaping notes

Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in full sun. Prefers moist, rich soils. Pinching back stems several times before mid-July will help control plant height and promote bushiness. Pinching back will also delay flowering. Easily grown from seed and may self-seed in the garden in optimum growing conditions. Plants may be cut to the ground after flowering to prevent any unwanted self-seeding and/or if foliage has become unsightly.

Restoration notes

Habitats include moist to mesic black soil prairies, clay prairies, thickets, moist meadows in woodlands, open areas along rivers and lakes, fens, abandoned fields, open areas along railroads and roadsides, and miscellaneous waste areas. Some populations are probably escapes from cultivated plants. This plant colonizes disturbed areas readily, but it also occurs in high quality habitats.

This species is commonly used in the following mixes: Wet Meadow Mix

 

Additional information

Weight N/A
Units

Packet, Ounce, Pound

Light

Full Sun to Part Shade

Soils

Average, Moist

Height

48"-60"

Bloom Month

Sep, Oct

Color

Purple, Yellow

Specialty Uses

Butterfly, Medicinal

What is PLS?

Pure Live Seed (PLS) is the portion of good viable seed per pound. It is a measure of the seed that is alive and able to sprout into plants. This product is sold by PLS ounce/pound. To provide one ounce/pound of viable seed, you will receive more than one ounce/pound of product. Read more about PLS here.