Species

Aster amellusItalian Aster

2 other cultivars

perennial RHS Award

King George Italian Aster

Aster amellus 'King George'

The Story

Plant Bio

A hardy and upright perennial known for its attractive purple flowers, which bloom profusely.

The 'King George' cultivar is particularly noted for its larger flowers and vigorous growth.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds vibrant lavender color to sunny borders and attracts pollinators with its nectar-rich flowers.

Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for water-wise gardens.

Supports beneficial insects and bees, contributing to garden biodiversity.

SpeciesAster amellusItalian Aster

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe

Toxicity

Non-toxic to pets and humans

Bloom period

Late summer – Early fall

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds lightly into well-drained soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings with water to maintain humidity during root development.
Provide full sun for optimal flowering and growth.
Water regularly, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry spells.
Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and mid-summer.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall to promote healthy growth.

Pro Tip

Use organic compost to enrich soil and encourage vibrant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during dry periods 🌱
Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming
Apply mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t prune in late fall or winter
Refrain from using excessive fertilizer which can cause legginess

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Pest Check
Pinch
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged borderMid-height perennial for sunny bedsDrought-tolerant garden accent

Companion Plants

Echinacea purpurea Rudbeckia hirta Lavandula angustifolia Sedum spectabile Gaillardia grandiflora

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

King George Italian Aster questions

What zones can King George Italian Aster grow in?

King George Italian Aster is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is King George Italian Aster deer resistant?

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

When does King George Italian Aster bloom?

King George Italian Aster typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does King George Italian Aster need full sun?

King George Italian Aster does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is King George Italian Aster drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), King George Italian Aster handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.