• slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide

Native Nectar Plant - New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)

Give the Monarch butterflies a nutrient boost for their long migration south with the help of the New England aster. You, the monarchs and bees will find these North American natives growing along roadsides, in meadows and prairies. Consider adding a few to your garden.

These fall beauties are hardy in zones 3 to 8 and native to over 40 states and 6 Canadian provinces.  The flowers are larger than most asters and colors range from blue-purple to lavender pink with a yellow center. Enjoy the flowers in the garden or cut a few for fall bouquets. And you’ll be glad to know, the deer tend to leave them be.

You’ll need to stake these 6 feet tall flowers or surround them with sturdy neighbors like goldenrod, switchgrass or other ornamental grasses.  Or pinch plants back to 6 inches throughout June and early July to keep plants more compact.

A bit more information:  Don’t be alarmed when finding holes in the leaves. The damage is likely from beneficial insects like the leaf cutter bee or the larvae (caterpillars) of moths.

Upcoming Live Events
& Webinars


March 20, 2024
FREE WEBINAR

Maximize the Beauty and Enjoyment
in Any Small Space
Register now

March 23, 2024

REALTORS Home & Garden Show
West Allis, WI

March 27, 2024
FREE WEBINAR

How to Start a Garden for Beginners
Register now

April 3, 2024
Garden Trends 

Franklin Public Library, Franklin, WI

April 10, 2024
FREE WEBINAR

Container Gardening Throughout the Year
Register now

April 11, 2024
FREE WEBINAR

7 Steps to Managing Water Where it Falls in Your Yard
Register now

April 18, 2024
Be a Waterwise Gardener
Golden Rondelle Theater, Racine, WI
Register now

April 20, 2024
Pruning Hydrangeas and Other Shrubs 
Pasquesi Home & Gardens, Lake Bluff, IL

April 27, 2024
Ridges & Rivers Book Festival
Viroqua, WI

April 28, 2024
Flowering Trees and Shrubs
Ebert's Greenhouse Village, Ixonia, WI

May 1, 2024
FREE WEBINAR

Ornamental Fruits and Vegetables
Register now

WATCH ON-DEMAND WEBINARS

Learn More

Book an Appearance

Learn More

Enter to Win The Birds & Blooms' Ultimate Gardening Guide !

ENTER NOW