Symphyotrichum novae-angliae '05-196-10'

perennialN. America Native

New England Aster

Symphyotrichum novae-angliae '05-196-10'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

28 inches

Width

38 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

New England Asters are classic fall-blooming native perennials, forming bushy clumps and covering themselves in daisy-like flowers. They are a vital late-season nectar source for pollinators. 'Grape Crush' is a modern selection prized for its compact, mounding habit that resists flopping, unlike taller species types. It is covered in vibrant, deep purple flowers and shows excellent mildew resistance.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides a massive burst of rich purple color in the autumn garden when many other plants are fading. Its dense, mounding habit creates a tidy, impactful presence at the front or middle of the border.

This compact cultivar requires no staking, unlike its taller relatives, making it a much lower-maintenance choice for modern gardens. It is also an excellent and long-lasting cut flower for fall bouquets.

As a late-season bloomer, it is an absolutely critical food source for pollinators, especially for monarch butterflies migrating south. The seeds are also eaten by goldfinches and other birds in winter.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a site in full sun with good air circulation.
Provide average, well-drained soil; avoid overly rich soil.
Dig a hole as deep and twice as wide as the pot.
Place the plant in the hole, with the crown at soil level.
Backfill with soil and water thoroughly.
Divide every few years in spring to keep the plant vigorous.

Pro Tip

Pinch back the stems by one-third to one-half in late spring (before July 4th) to create a denser, sturdier plant that won't need staking.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide full sun for the strongest stems and most flowers.
Ensure good air circulation to prevent powdery mildew.
Water during dry spells, especially when buds are forming.
Divide clumps in the spring to control spread and rejuvenate the plant.

Don't

Don't plant in shade, which leads to weak stems and poor flowering.
Avoid fertilizing, which can cause floppy growth.
Don't pinch back after early July, or you may remove the flower buds.
Don't let the soil get bone dry for extended periods.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Pinch
Plant
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vibrant color for the front of fall bordersEssential component of pollinator and butterfly gardensCompact mass planting for a sea of purple

Companion Plants

Solidago 'Fireworks' Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' Panicum virgatum Sedum 'Autumn Joy' Schizachyrium scoparium

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

New England Aster questions

What zones can New England Aster grow in?

New England Aster is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is New England Aster deer resistant?

Yes — New England Aster is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does New England Aster bloom?

New England Aster typically blooms in early fall through mid-fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does New England Aster need full sun?

New England Aster does best in full sun (6+ hours).