One of the most popular perennial flowers grown in the garden, asters are certainly luscious and bright, standing out in any landscape with their daisy-like blossoms and vivid colors during late summer and fall. Their trident-shaped flowers-\\”aster\” is the Greek word for “star”-are one reason why many gardeners grow them to continue the flowering season. They also attract bees and butterflies, adding ecological value to their ornamental appeal. With hundreds of species and cultivars available, asters have one of the largest selections any gardener would have to choose from. This article goes through all types of asters and unique features that each can bring, giving you that variety you may want for your garden.

Overview of the Aster Family

Asters are members of the Asteraceae family, which also includes daisies, sunflowers, and chrysanthemums. Although the genus Aster was once large, botanical reclassification has placed many species in other genera, including Symphyotrichum, Eurybia, and Doellingeria. Still, most gardeners continue to use the term asters to refer to these plants collectively.

Natives to North America, Europe, and Asia, asters have many varieties and therefore tolerate many types of climate and soil. For instance, this plant does very well in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 8, depending on the species, and performs very well under full to partial sunlight and well-drained soils.

Popular Aster Varieties

1. New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)

The New England aster is a sturdy, tall native North American variety that grows to about 6 feet tall and blooms in clusters of bright purple, pink, and lavender with yellow centers. This is a great attractor plant for monarch butterflies and other pollinators. Moist, well-drained soil and borders and naturalized areas are great places for it.

2. New York Aster (Symphyotrichum novi-belgii)

Michaelmas daisies is a common name for New York asters, which are slightly shorter than New England varieties, growing to 2 to 4 feet tall. New York asters come in a wide range of colors, from pure white to a blue that has a slight tint of purple to pink. New York asters are great additions to late-season gardens and often used in cottage-style landscapes.

3. Alpine Aster (Aster alpinus)

Alpine aster is a low-growing species for mountainous areas. It flowers early in the summer, giving it a better position than asters, which bloom late in the season. The flowers are typically lavender, pink, or white with a yellow center. Alpine asters are ideal for rock gardens, borders, and containers because they are compact in size and flower early.

4. Smooth Aster (Symphyotrichum laeve)

This species has smooth, hairless stems and leaves as its common name indicates. Smooth asters are a hardy, North American species that thrive in poor soils. It grows to 3 feet tall with lavender-blue flowers that have yellow centers. The plants are very drought-tolerant, making them ideal for wildflower gardens and prairie-style landscapes.

5. Heath Aster (Symphyotrichum ericoides)

Heaths are named for their fine, needle-like foliage that is reminiscent of heather plants. These asters are native to North America and have an excellent ability to tolerate drought. They bear small, white flowers with yellow centers and have a height of around 1 to 3 feet. Heath asters are good for dry, sunny locations and are often used in xeriscaping.

6. Italian Aster (Aster amellus)

The Italian aster is indigenous to Europe and is one of the oldest cultivated aster species. It grows to about 2 feet tall, with violet-blue flowers having yellow centers. Italian asters like well-drained soil and full sun. Thus, it’s a perfect option for borders and cutting gardens.

7. Calico Aster (Symphyotrichum lateriflorum)

Calico asters have delicate, branching stems of tiny white or pale pink flowers with purplish centers. This native North American grows 3 feet tall and often is seen in woodland gardens and naturalized spots. It’s a fine filler in mixed borders due to its airy, open habit.

8. Wood Aster (Eurybia divaricata)

Wood asters are native woodland species to North American forests. They produce small, white flowers with yellow or purplish centers, reaching a height of 2 feet. Woodland gardens and shaded borders would adore these asters, growing under dappled sunlight and rich, well-drained soil.

9. Tatarian Aster (Aster tataricus)

The Tatarian aster is a tall, late-blooming species native to Asia. It grows to 8 feet tall and bears clusters of lavender-blue flowers with yellow centers. This species is very hardy and can thrive in poor soil, making it a great choice for difficult garden locations.

10. White Wood Aster (Eurybia divaricata)

Similar to the wood aster, the white wood aster is another shade-loving species. It has small, white flowers with yellow centers and grows up to 2 feet tall. This variety is often used in woodland and naturalized gardens, where it provides a soft, understated beauty.

Tips for Growing Asters

Planting Location: Asters thrive in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Choose a location with well-drained soil to prevent root rot.

Soil Preparation: Amending the soil with compost or organic matter is essential for its drainage and fertility.

Watering: Water should be consistently moist, especially when the plant is growing, though not to overwater it.

Pruning: Remove spent flowers to promote a continuous blooming. Taller varieties may require cutting back in early summer for bushier growth.

Fertilizing: Fertilize your plant with a balanced fertilizer during spring for strong growth and lovely blooms.

Dividing: Divide asters every 2 to 3 years to avoid overcrowding and keep the plant healthy.

Pest and Disease Management: Look out for aphids and spider mites. Provide good air circulation to avoid fungal diseases like powdery mildew.

Using Asters in Garden Design

Asters are versatile plants that can be used in different garden settings:

Borders: Taller varieties like New England and New York asters create stunning backdrops for mixed borders.

Rock Gardens: Alpine asters are lovely in rock gardens and low-maintenance landscapes.

Wildflower Gardens: Smooth, heath, and calico asters mix well with native grasses and other wildflowers.

Containers: Dwarf varieties work well for use in patio containers and small spaces for gardens.

Cutting Gardens: Cut flowers of Italian and New England asters are long-lasting.

Ecological Benefits of Asters

Not only are asters beautiful, but they also serve the local ecosystems in many ways. Their flowers at the late season provide important nectar to the pollinators – bees, butterflies, and moths. New England aster is one of those species that is especially important to migrating monarch butterflies. Some other species serve as hosts to several species of butterflies and moths. Hence, asters are your way to bring a little more biodiversity to your gardens.

Conclusion

With their varied types, colors, and growth habit, asters are something different for every single gardener. Should you want spectacular fall color, perhaps attract pollinators, or maybe a reduced-maintenance landscape – there is at least one suitable aster variety ready to go out there. Using knowledge of a particular type’s unique characteristics gives you the pick of the finest plants to add new beauty and ecosystem value to your garden. Admire the star-like beauty of asters and appreciate their eternal beauty for centuries to come.