Aster novae-angliae 'Harrington's Pink' (New England Aster) — Clump-forming, upright to bushy

Overview

Aster novae-angliae 'Harrington's Pink' is a clump-forming, upright to bushy perennial in the genus Aster, part of the Asteraceae family, with deciduous; simple, often narrow and roughly textured foliage. It typically grows around 1.5 m tall. Aster novae-angliae 'Harrington's Pink' grows best in full sun, and tolerates fertile loam; avoid thin and dry soils soils and neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6–H7. Suggested uses include borders, wildflower gardens and pollinator gardens. It is native to Eastern Canada, Northeastern U.S.A. and Southeastern U.S.A..

About the genus

Aster is a genus of perennial flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. Its circumscription has been narrowed, and it now encompasses around 170 species, all but one of which are restricted to Eurasia; many species formerly in Aster are now in other genera of the tribe Astereae. Aster amellus is the type species of the genus and the family Asteraceae.

Wikipedia contributors, "Aster (genus)", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Aster (genus)

In the garden

Aster novae-angliae 'Harrington's Pink' is a clump-forming perennial from eastern North America, carrying erect stems to roughly 1.5 m and a collar of simple, often narrow leaves that drop back each winter. Its native range lies in eastern Canada and the north‑eastern and south‑eastern United States, and the plant produces its display in the UK between August and October. Plant in a sunny, south, east or west-facing position on fertile loam; avoid thin, dry soils. It prefers soil that is neutral to slightly alkaline and remains moist but well drained. Exposure can be sheltered or exposed — the species is rated H6–H7 (very hardy to fully hardy), so it will tolerate most UK winters and sits within USDA zones 4–8 for wider climate reference. Allow room at the back of a mixed border or set into a pollinator or wildflower garden where 1.5 m height is acceptable. The clump-forming habit means stems rise above many companion perennials, so position where late-season flowerheads will be visible and accessible to insects. Planting in fertile soil and a sunny aspect helps the stems hold their flowerheads through August to October.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Aster

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Fertile loam; avoid thin, dry soils
Soil pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline
Soil moisture: Moist but well drained
Aspect: South, east or west facing
Exposure: Exposed or sheltered
UK hardiness: H6–H7

Plant details

Aster novae-angliae 'Harrington's Pink' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Perennial
Habit: Clump-forming, upright to bushy
Foliage: Deciduous; simple, often narrow and roughly textured
Height: 1.5 m
Suggested uses: Borders, wildflower gardens, pollinator gardens
Native to: Eastern Canada, Northeastern U.S.A., Southeastern U.S.A.

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Aster novae-angliae 'Harrington's Pink'

Cultivation: Plant in an open, airy position — crowding is what brings on mildew. Divide every second or third year to maintain vigour, and pinch or Chelsea-chop the taller kinds in late spring to reduce the need for staking.
Pruning: Deadhead to prolong the display, then cut stems to the base after flowering, or leave them standing through winter for structure and wildlife.
Propagation: Divide in spring, replanting only the vigorous outer growth. Basal cuttings taken in spring root readily.
Pest resistance: Slugs may take young shoots in spring; otherwise generally trouble-free.
Disease resistance: Powdery mildew is the main weakness, especially among the older novi-belgii cultivars. The frikartii hybrids and the aster relatives are markedly more resistant.

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Aster novae-angliae 'Harrington's Pink'?

Plant in an open, airy position — crowding is what brings on mildew. Divide every second or third year to maintain vigour, and pinch or Chelsea-chop the taller kinds in late spring to reduce the need for staking.

Where is the best place to plant Aster novae-angliae 'Harrington's Pink'?

Aster novae-angliae 'Harrington's Pink' prefers full sun. It suits exposed or sheltered positions.

What soil does Aster novae-angliae 'Harrington's Pink' need?

Aster novae-angliae 'Harrington's Pink' grows best in fertile loam; avoid thin and dry soils soil. It prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well drained.