The Story
Plant Bio
Symphyotrichum novi-belgii, or New York Aster, is a late-season perennial known for its profuse, daisy-like flowers that provide crucial nectar for pollinators before winter.
'Wood's Purple' is a compact, mildew-resistant cultivar featuring masses of vibrant violet-purple flowers with yellow centers. Its dwarf habit makes it ideal for borders and containers.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
15 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Eastern North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or divisions into well-drained soil in early spring
- Water regularly until established, then reduce watering
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in spring
- Pinch back early growth to encourage bushiness
- Divide in early spring or fall every 3-4 years
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun for best flowering and ensure well-drained soil
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water during prolonged dry spells 🌱
- Prune back after flowering to promote new growth
- Use mulch to conserve moisture and prevent weeds
- Divide every few years to maintain vigor
Don't
- Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
- Neglect pruning after bloom
- Plant in poorly drained soil
- Use excessive fertilizer that encourages floppy growth
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pinch | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Wood's Purple New York Aster questions
What zones can Wood's Purple New York Aster grow in?
Wood's Purple New York 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 Wood's Purple New York Aster deer resistant?
Yes — Wood's Purple New York Aster is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Wood's Purple New York Aster bloom?
Wood's Purple New York Aster typically blooms in late summer, fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Wood's Purple New York Aster need full sun?
Wood's Purple New York Aster does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Wood's Purple New York Aster drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Wood's Purple New York Aster handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Aster to compare
Lou Williams New England Aster
Aster novae-angliae 'Lou Williams'
New England Aster 'Violetta'
Aster novae-angliae 'Violetta'
Rosa Sieger New England Aster
Aster novae-angliae 'Rosa Sieger'
Crimson Brocade New England Aster
Aster x hybrida 'Crimson Brocade'
Purple Dome New England Aster
Aster novae-angliae 'Purple Dome'
New England Aster
Aster novae-angliae
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Wood's Purple New York Aster with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.