New England aster

Symphyotrichum novae-angliae (L.) G.L.Nesom

New England aster forms bushy perennial clumps that brighten meadows, stream margins and low valleys late in the growing season. Its showy heads combine many purple ray flowers with a crowded yellow centre of smaller disc flowers. Cultivated selections include shorter plants and other flower colours. North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox: Symphyotrichum novae-angliae

Wear New England aster: explore the botanical t-shirt

Botanical name

Symphyotrichum novae-angliae is an accepted species in Asteraceae. Aster novae-angliae L. is its homotypic synonym, linking the familiar older name to this identity. Kew Plants of the World Online: Symphyotrichum novae-angliae

Recognizing the plant

Stout, hairy stems carry narrow leaves whose bases clasp the stem. Lower leaves commonly wither by flowering time, while upper leaves become progressively smaller. Fine glands occur on the upper stem and foliage. The plant persists through a thick, branched base or short fleshy rhizomes. Flora of North America: Symphyotrichum novae-angliae

Bloom window

North Carolina

North Carolina Extension records flowering from August through October. North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox: Symphyotrichum novae-angliae

Native range

Despite its regional common name, the species is native across central and eastern Canada and much of the United States. It has also been introduced widely in Europe and parts of Asia. Kew Plants of the World Online: Symphyotrichum novae-angliae