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

Overview

Aster novi-belgii 'Climax' 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 'Climax' 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 cottage gardens. It is native to Southeastern U.S.A., New York, Northern America and Eastern Canada.

About

Aster novi-belgii 'Climax' is a clump-forming perennial New York aster prized for its late-summer to autumn flowering (August to October). It grows to about 1.2 m with deciduous, simple leaves that are often narrow and roughly textured. Give it full sun in fertile loam that stays moist but drains freely, and site it on a south, east or west-facing border. It tolerates exposed or sheltered spots and is rated H6–H7 in the UK (USDA 4–8).

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

Aster novi-belgii 'Climax' is a perennial originating from eastern North America, including the northeastern United States and parts of eastern Canada. As a clump-forming member of the Asteraceae, it reaches roughly 1.2 m and carries simple, narrow foliage before producing its main display between August and October. Plant it in a sunny position on fertile loam; avoid thin, dry soils. Neutral to slightly alkaline ground suits it best. Keep the soil moist but ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging. Position on a south-, east- or west-facing site where it receives strong light; the variety copes with both exposed and sheltered conditions. In UK hardiness terms it sits at H6–H7 (very hardy to fully hardy), and it corresponds to USDA zones 4–8. Use Aster novi-belgii 'Climax' towards the back of mixed borders where its height and late flowering extend the season, or plant in cottage-style beds and cutting plots. Sturdy stems make it suitable for cutting: take flower stems through late summer and early autumn to bring that seasonal bloom indoors.

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 'Climax' 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, cottage gardens
Native to: Southeastern U.S.A., New York, Northern America, Eastern Canada

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Aster novi-belgii 'Climax'

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 'Climax'?

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 'Climax'?

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

What soil does Aster novi-belgii 'Climax' need?

Aster novi-belgii 'Climax' 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.