Native Plant Spotlight: New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)
When most gardens are fading in late summer, New England Aster comes alive—bringing bold color and vital habitat into the fall season.
Why we love it:
Late-Season Color: Blooms from August through October in vibrant purples and pinks with sunny yellow centers.
Pollinator Magnet: A key nectar source for monarch butterflies, native bees, and other pollinators preparing for winter.
Adaptable & Hardy: Thrives in both moist meadows and drier garden soils.
Low Maintenance: Once established, it’s drought tolerant and needs little fuss.
Design Tip:
Plant New England Aster in drifts for maximum visual impact, or pair it with goldenrod (Solidago rugosa) for a classic fall color combo. Works beautifully in pollinator gardens, meadow plantings, and naturalized borders.
Fun Fact:
Its deep root system helps stabilize soil, making it a useful addition in restoration projects and erosion-prone areas.
📍 Native to Cape Cod and common in towns like Falmouth, Hyannis, Barnstable, Chatham, Brewster, and Sandwich.
