New England Aster

Symphyotrichum novae-angliae

New England Aster image

New England aster is a native plant ranging in height from 2 to 6 feet tall. The plant is in flower from August to October with pink to purple flowers with bright yellow centers. The New England aster is often the "last man standing" in disturbed natural areas, surviving long after other native plants have succumbed to invasive species. Conservationists often use the plant in restoring prairies due to its ability to withstand weedy competition. An older name for the plant, Michaelmas daisy, stems from its approximate blooming date of September 29, the Feast of Saint Michael. The leaves, when crushed, release an aroma similar to turpentine.