The New England aster (Aster novae-angliae) is a bushy perennial
that produces beautiful masses of daisylike blooms in the fall.
Delicate ½- to 1-inch flowers feature pink or purple ray
florets, either with contrasting yellow or complementing pink
disc florets. Native to prairie regions of the United States and
Canada, the species can grow 5 to 6 feet, but many cultivated
varieties take a more compact, fuller form. The flowers are a
popular attraction for butterflies and bees, since they're one
of the few food sources that's likely to survive a moderate
frost. Common name: New England aster Botanical name: Aster
novae-angliae Plant type: Herbaceous perennial Height: 5 feet
Zones: 4 to 8 - Sun: Full sun or part shade. - Soil: Well-
cultivated, fertile, moist soil. - Moisture: Grows best with
regular watering, but established plants with protection from
afternoon sun tolerate some dryness. - Mulch: Apply 1 to 2
inches of organic mulch around plants to preserve soil moisture
and prevent weeds. - Fertilizer: Apply