New England Aster

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)

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.

Livestock will eat this plant in its growing stage.

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.

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