Ontario Native
New England Aster
Symphyotrichum novae-angliae
Flower colour
Deep purple to lavender-pink with bright yellow-orange centres that turn reddish-purple with age
Bloom time
Late summer through fall
Height
24-48"
Light
Full sun but can tolerate light or partial shade.
Moisture
Medium to moist. While it prefers damp areas like meadows and stream banks, it is surprisingly adaptable to various soil types, including clay and sandy loam, once established.
Native to Ontario
Yes
Ecological benefit
Keystone Pollinator Support: It is a critical late-season nectar source for migrating Monarch butterflies and a variety of native bees and skippers preparing for winter. Larval Host: It serves as a host plant for over 100 species of butterflies and moths, including the Pearl Crescent and various checkerspot butterflies.
Notes
Its seed heads provide food for songbirds, and the dried stalks offer winter shelter for small beneficial insects.