About
A compact, spreading deciduous perennial with slim branches of lance-shaped mid green leaves. Large red to pink single daisy-like flowers are produced from summer until mid 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, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Coastal, Wildlife gardens, Gravel garden
Care notes
CultivationThrives in fertile, moist but well drained soil in sun or partial shade. Plants will benefit from mulching in autumn, and division every few years to maintain vigour. Will not tolerate waterlogging in winter. For more advice see aster cultivation
PruningPrune by dead-heading regulary. Cut back to the ground in late autumn
PropagationPropagate by sowing seeds in a cold frame in spring or autumn. Divide in spring, replanting only vigorous young shoots
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails on new growth, and to aphids and leaf and bud eelworms
Disease resistanceMaybe susceptible to Fusarium wilt, grey mould, leafspot and powdery mildew