New England Aster
Symphyotrichum novae-angliae - Starter Plug
THIS ITEM IS ONLY AVAILABLE FOR PICKUP ON APRIL 25, 2026, FROM 10AM TO 12 PM AT GREENVALE VINEYARDS, PORTSMOUTH, RHODE ISLAND.
There is no delivery option for your seedling pre-order; you must pick them up yourself on our seedling sale date. Any seedlings that are not picked up will be considered a donation to ERICD's educational farm program.
What You'll Receive:
One (1) New England Aster starter plug - a young, healthy plant with an established root system, ready to create clouds of purple fall flowers and provide critical nectar for migrating Monarchs.
Save the Monarchs with New England's signature wildflower! This spectacular native aster creates clouds of purple (sometimes pink or white) daisy-like flowers that blanket the fall landscape just when Monarch butterflies need nectar for their epic migration to Mexico. Considered a keystone wildlife plant, it supports an incredible 112 species of butterflies and moths! The late-season blooms provide critical food for pollinators when few other plants are flowering, making this an essential addition to any wildlife-friendly garden.
Outstanding Features:
Critical Monarch Nectar Source: Blooms precisely when Monarch butterflies migrate through New England, providing essential fuel for their 3,000-mile journey to Mexico.
Keystone Wildlife Plant: Supports 112 species of Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths)—more than almost any other plant. Essential for native ecosystem health!
Late Season Pollinator Support: One of the last native plants blooming in fall, providing critical nectar when food sources are scarce.
Stunning Fall Display: Creates masses of vibrant purple flowers that rival any ornamental garden plant, with some varieties offering pink or white blooms.
Winter Wildlife Value: Seed heads provide food for finches and other seed-eating birds throughout winter.
Plant Specifications:
Light: Full sun (6-8 hours minimum)
Soil: Average to rich, well-drained; tolerates clay
Moisture: Medium to moist; performs best with consistent moisture
Height: 3-6 feet tall, 2-3 feet spread
Bloom Time: September to October (fall)
Hardiness: Zones 4-8 (perfect for New England)
Growing Tips:
Plant starter plugs 24-36 inches apart in spring. New England Aster performs best in full sun with consistent moisture. To prevent flopping and encourage bushier growth, cut plants back by one-third in late May and again in late June (Chelsea Chop method). This results in shorter, sturdier plants with more flowers. Divide clumps every 2-3 years in spring to maintain vigor. May self-sow moderately. In Rhode Island and Massachusetts gardens (zones 5-6), this is THE fall native to grow for migrating Monarchs and other pollinators.