Aster, New England
(Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)
This lovely and popular aster, formerly under Aster novae angliae, is native to Canada as well as the central and eastern United States. Plants can be found in moderate to moist sites in meadows, open woods, roadsides and along stream banks. Plants bloom in late summer and early fall, and the flowers come in varying shades of pink, violet and purple. Excellent late blooming pollinator plant for honey bees and native bees. Also recommended for rain gardens and bioswales. If stressed by hot, dry weather, plants will drop their lower leaves.