About
Clump-forming perennial with slender branched flowering stems about 90cm in height with lance-shaped mid-green leaves. From late summer to autumn bears clusters of semi-double, daisy-like, violet flowerheads with yellow centres.
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 typeClay, Loam, Chalk, 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
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, 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
PruningDeadhead spent flowers to tidy, cut back stem close to the ground in late autumn
PropagationPropagate by division in spring or root softwood basal cuttings in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to leaf and bud eelworms, slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to Verticillium wilt, powdery mildews and grey moulds