1 named cultivar
The Story
Plant Bio
Symphyotrichum dumosum, commonly known as Bushy Aster, is a compact, clump-forming perennial with dense, leafy stems and a profusion of daisy-like flowers with violet-blue rays and yellow centers in late summer and fall.
This species is notable for its compact growth habit, making it suitable for small gardens and landscapes, and it provides excellent late-season color to gardens.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil for planting.
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into the soil, ensuring good contact for germination.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around roots.
- Maintain consistent moisture during the first few weeks.
- Fertilize with a balanced plant food in early spring to promote healthy growth.
- Prune dead or damaged stems in late fall to encourage bushier growth.
Pro Tip
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds, especially during hot summers.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
- Prune lightly in early spring for shape and health
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t prune in late fall to avoid removing next season's buds
- Refrain from fertilizing in late fall
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pinch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| 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
Bushy Aster questions
What zones can Bushy Aster grow in?
Bushy 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 Bushy Aster deer resistant?
Yes — Bushy Aster is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Bushy Aster bloom?
Bushy 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 Bushy Aster need full sun?
Bushy Aster does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
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 Bushy 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.