Aster novi-belgii (Symphyotrichum novi-belgii) (New York aster)

New York aster is a showy perennial, growing up to 6' or more in height. Bright, rose-purple flowers (shades can vary) with orange-yellow centers bloom in profusion at the tips of the leafy branches. Flowers until frost. New York aster thrives in full or part sun in moist soils. Its smooth leaves differentiate it from the New England aster. Can be aggressive. Divide roots every several years to keep the plant growing vigorously. 

New York aster is native to eastern Canada and the eastern U.S. It is found in moist, open, wooded areas, meadows, and disturbed sites. Bees (especially native bees, bumble bees, and honey bees) and butterflies frequent this wildflower. It is also a nectar souce for monarch butterflies and a larval host for the pearl crescent and checkerspot butterflies. 

BONAP Native Range Map (bright green indicates county native, dark green indicates state native)  

Photo by Kathy Thornton

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