About
Clump-forming perennial with slender flowering stems about 90cm in height with lance to heart-shaped rough-hairy, mid-green leaves. From late summer to autumn bears spreading clusters of daisy-like pale lavender blue flowerheads to 2.5cm across, 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 typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Prairie planting, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or light shade. Stake tall plants in early spring, see staking perennials. See 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 carried out every third year to maintain vigour
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to leaf and bud eelworms, slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to Verticillium wilt, Powdery mildews and grey moulds