Aster novi-belgii 'Blue Gown' (New York Aster) — Clump-forming, upright to bushy

Overview

Aster novi-belgii 'Blue Gown' 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 1.2 m tall. Aster novi-belgii 'Blue Gown' 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, cut flowers and wildlife gardens. It is native to Southeastern U.S.A., New York, Northern America and Eastern Canada.

About

Aster novi-belgii 'Blue Gown' is a clump-forming perennial in the Asteraceae valued for its late-season flowerheads from August to October. Plants reach about 1.2 m and carry narrow, roughly textured deciduous leaves. Give it a sunny, south-, east- or west-facing position in fertile loam that stays moist but drains freely. It is very hardy to fully hardy for UK conditions (H6–H7).

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Symphyotrichum novi-belgii

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

Originating from North-eastern North America, Aster novi-belgii 'Blue Gown' belongs to the group commonly known as New York asters. It forms upright, well-branched clumps to roughly 1.2 m and produces its flowering display from August to October, making it a valuable late-season presence for pollinators. Plant in full sun on fertile loam, avoiding thin, dry soils; the soil should be neutral to slightly alkaline and kept moist but well drained. Position on a south, east or west aspect to maximise flowering. It tolerates both exposed and sheltered sites and is rated H6–H7 for UK hardiness (also suitable for USDA zones 4–8). Plants benefit from staking only if stems are long and carrying many heads; cut back in late winter if necessary to encourage fresh spring shoots. Use 'Blue Gown' in mixed borders where height and late colour are needed, in wildlife-focused plantings to support insects, or as a source of cut stems for arrangements. Because flowering comes late, tie stems only lightly if you plan to cut for vases so the terminal heads remain intact for garden interest as long as possible.

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 novi-belgii 'Blue Gown' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Perennial
Habit: Clump-forming, upright to bushy
Foliage: Deciduous; simple, often narrow and roughly textured
Height: 1.2 m
Suggested uses: Borders, cut flowers, wildlife gardens
Native to: Southeastern U.S.A., New York, Northern America, Eastern Canada

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Aster novi-belgii 'Blue Gown'

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 novi-belgii 'Blue Gown'?

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 novi-belgii 'Blue Gown'?

Aster novi-belgii 'Blue Gown' prefers full sun. It suits exposed or sheltered positions.

What soil does Aster novi-belgii 'Blue Gown' need?

Aster novi-belgii 'Blue Gown' 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.