About
A compact, clump-forming perennial forming a dense mound of dark green foliage to 30cm high. Clusters of semi-double, daisy-like pink flowerheads with golden-yellow centres are borne above the foliage in late summer and 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 hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, Cottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal
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
PruningCut back in late autumn
PropagationPropagate by division in spring, replanting only vigorous young shoots
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails on new growth, and to aphids, leaf and bud eelworms and tarsonemid mite
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to Fusarium wilt, powdery mildews, grey moulds and leaf spots