New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)

Description: Hardy, North American perennial - Lavender to deep purple, daisy-like flowers in late summer to early fall
Habit: Grows 3-6' high and 2-3' wide; upright, clump-forming
Culture: Prefers full sun and moist but well-drained garden loam
Hardiness: Cold hardy to USDA Zone 4
Origin: North America
Attributes: Attracts butterflies and bees. Cut flowers

North American asters ranked as the premier native plant introduced into Europe during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. British patron Peter Collinson wrote to Philadelphia plant collector and nurseryman John Bartram, "your country in inexhaustible in asters", and Lady Jean Skipwith included "asters of various kinds" in her southern Virginia garden during the late 1700's. New England Aster was included on the 1806 list of Philadelphia nurseryman Bernard McMahon and in the 1818 catalogue of the William Prince Nursery on Long Island, New York. This species remains a choice perennial in today's flower border as it is attractive to butterflies and makes a good cut flower.

Arrives in a 1 quart pot.