New England Aster is one of the showiest and most important fall wildflowers in North America, producing masses of deep purple to pink flowers with golden centers from late August through October. Growing 3–6 feet tall in moist to mesic habitats across the eastern half of the continent, it is critical for fall migrating butterflies, especially monarchs. Its showy flowers attract dozens of native bee species. New England Aster is the parent of many popular garden aster cultivars.
Best time to see a New England Aster
The best time to see a New England Aster is September, when about 62% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 25,949 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a New England Aster? What plant is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
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