Great Design Plant: Aster
Putting on a spectacular show in fall, asters in a rainbow of colors and a range of sizes are a versatile fit for any garden
The lack of flowers blooming in the garden in the fall can be a real bummer, but as I write this in August, you've got time to plant some autumn bloomers. Asters come in a range of stunning colors, particularly pinks and purples, and there are more than 600 known species to choose from. Plant these in your existing perennial gardens, create a border garden or add them to a wildflower meadow mix to keep your garden blossoming and colorful well into fall.
Distinguishing traits: The aster was named after the Greek word for "star," due to the flower's star-like shape. It has a bright yellow center that is made up of tiny flowerets. The flowers range from about 1/2 inch to about 3 inches in diameter.
Because there are so many different species, the size of the plant varies from dwarf to tall. The flowers vary in size too and come in colors that include white, purple, pink and red.
Most aster plants have soft, mounded shapes. They attract butterflies.
Because there are so many different species, the size of the plant varies from dwarf to tall. The flowers vary in size too and come in colors that include white, purple, pink and red.
Most aster plants have soft, mounded shapes. They attract butterflies.
How to use aster in the garden: Aster is a versatile plant that works well in all types of gardens, including borders, perennial gardens, butterfly gardens and rock gardens. It also adds beauty to meadows in the fall. Asters come in a range of hues that mums don't, such as blues and purples.
Use the plant as part of your three-season planting plan. If you have a perennial garden you'd like to have blooms in for as long as possible, plant asters throughout it. For a short-lived but spectacular show, plant large borders or swaths with a variety of asters. This will make September one of your yard's most memorable months.
Use the plant as part of your three-season planting plan. If you have a perennial garden you'd like to have blooms in for as long as possible, plant asters throughout it. For a short-lived but spectacular show, plant large borders or swaths with a variety of asters. This will make September one of your yard's most memorable months.
Planting notes: As soon as you see aster plants in the nursery, snatch them up and plant them in late summer or early fall. This will give them a good chance to get established before the first frost, which increases their chances of returning the following year.
- Prepare your soil with organic material to make sure it's rich and loamy.
- Because sizes can vary, follow the instruction on the tag or seed packet regarding spacing.
- Be extra sure to keep the plants watered during blooming season.
- Deadhead to keep your plant blooming as long as possible.
- When the plant dies back as winter approaches, cut it back to the ground.
That's interesting: In medieval Europe, people burned asters to ward off serpents (it was thought to make them take flight). The mythology continues today, as some believe that burning aster leaves will keep snakes away.
See more guides to great design plants
See more guides to great design plants
Common name: Aster, michaelmas daisy, starwort, frost flowers
USDA zones: 3 to 8 (find your zone)
Water requirement: Although somewhat drought tolerant, asters do best in well-drained soil.
Light requirement: Full sun to partial shade
Mature size: Ranges from 4 inches high (dwarf varieties) to 4 feet high
Benefits and tolerances: Asters can be susceptible to quite a few problems; choose a disease-resistant variety.
Seasonal interest: Blooms in the fall
When to plant: Early fall or after the last frost of winter