New England Aster

Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: well-cultivated, fertile, moist soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: August to OctoberHardiness: fully hardyA spectacular variety which from late summer through to autumn, bears a prolific display of fine-rayed violet-purple daisies. The needle-fine petals radiate from a central golden crown. A naturally tall plant, it is best grown through twiggy support to prevent unruly growth, providing a regal purple splash of colour to the back of the autumn border when many other perennials have finished flowering. Attractive to bees and butterflies.Garden care: Stake with bamboo canes or brushwood in early spring. Water regularly during dry spells and deadhead to prolong flowering. After flowering cut the flowered stems to the ground and apply a generous mulch of well-rotted garden compost or horse manure around the base of the plant....more Price: £5.95 Source: Crocus •