Barbara’s Favorite Flowers: Aster
This is fall blooming Aster, Symphyotrichum oblongifolium, (Aster novae anglias). It’s name comes from the greek meaning “star”, which of course the flower shape is reminiscent of. The Aster is yet another easy peasy perennial that grows wild all along my woodland, and wetland borders. As its name implies, the fall Aster blooms in fall providing a colorful and bright lavender display when other flowering plants have run out of steam. They say it needs well-drained soil, but from my personal experience it’s not picky at all, and grows just about anywhere. You can use this in a formal border or a wild garden. It’s a real bonus when there is not much flowering in the garden! So plant and enjoy it!