Aster Seeds - Symphyotrichum novae-angliae - New England

A vibrant native wildflower that delivers rich purple fall blooms and essential late-season nectar for monarchs and pollinators.

Description

New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae) is a wild-type native wildflower found throughout the eastern and central United States, including the Great Lakes region, New England, the Mid-Atlantic, and much of the Midwest. This upright perennial produces masses of deep purple, daisy-like blooms with bright yellow centers, offering some of the most vibrant color of the fall season.

As a true native species, it plays an important ecological role, providing late-season nectar for monarchs, native bees, and other pollinators when few other flowers remain. The plants develop sturdy stems and naturalize well in meadows, pollinator gardens, roadsides, and restoration plantings.

This species can be more challenging to start from seed. New England Aster has naturally lower germination rates compared to many garden ornamentals and requires cold stratification for reliable sprouting. Surface sowing and steady moisture are essential to successful germination.

Once established, New England Aster is hardy, vigorous, and long-lived, delivering dependable late-season blooms and meaningful habitat value year after year.