About
A clump-forming deciduous herbaceous perennial with stems that reach 60cm high and as much across. In late summer to autumn, mid-purple, semi-double daisies are produced, with a contrasting yellow centre.
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 moistureWell-drained, Moist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy, Clump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, 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, and may need support, see staking (perennials). For more advice see aster cultivation
PruningCut back old, flowered stems to the ground in late autumn
PropagationPropagate by division in spring; divide every third year to maintain vigour
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to tarsonemid mite, slugs, snails, aphids, leaf and bud eelworms
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to verticillium wilt, powdery mildews and grey moulds