About
A clump-forming perennial to 1.2m tall, with dark green leaves. Open, arching sprays of small, lavender-blue flowers 2cm wide, on lax stems appear from late summer through until the autumn.
About the genus
Symphyotrichum includes around 90 species of annuals, biennials and perennials, mostly spread through the Americas, that were formerly included within the genus Aster. Leaves are simple, lance-shaped and entire, but it is their daisy-like flowerheads that they are grown for; central disc florets are typically yellow, surrounded by strap-shaped ray florets in shades of pink, blue, purple or white
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Prairie planting, Gravel garden
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or light shade. Stake plants in early spring. See staking perennials. and aster cultivation for further advice
PruningCut stems close to the ground in late autumn
PropagationPropagate by division in spring or root softwood basal cuttings in spring; division can be done every third year to maintain vigour
Pest resistanceGenerally trouble-free. Monitor for slugs and aphids.
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to verticillium wilt, powdery mildews and grey moulds