Symphyotrichum novae-angliae (New England aster)

Composite flowers occur at the ends of the upper stems in clusters. Flowers are 1½” in diameter and range in color from purple to lavender. Plants can reach 6′ in height. Easy to grow and maintain, tolerates sand, loam and clay soil; full or partial sun, moist to average soils. Spreads to fill in areas of your garden. Bloom late summer through fall.

Flowers are edible, making a festive addition to dishes. Especially nice in arrangements, copious amounts of flowers are borne on erect stems, and they fill vases easily creating a showy display.