Grape Crush Fall Aster

‘Grape Crush’ is a patented New England aster bred by Walters Gardens, forming a broad, rounded mound of dark green foliage covered with rich purple flowers in late summer and fall. Its dense flowering and sturdy habit make it useful in sunny perennial borders, mass plantings and cut-flower gardens. ## Seasonal Display and Placement Walters Gardens describes early- to mid-fall flowers above dark green foliage and reports no lodging in its trials. The cultivar’s foliage and mound remain visible through summer before the fall bloom. At maturity, it is reported at about 26–30 inches tall and 40–44 inches wide; allow the wider spread when grouping plants. ## Growing Conditions Plant in full sun and fertile soil with even moisture. The breeder lists USDA zones 3–8 and recommends good airflow; overly crowded asters can be more vulnerable to powdery mildew. The display is especially useful where a low, broad autumn mound can soften the front or middle of a border. ## Maintenance Keep the root zone evenly moist during establishment and dry periods. Walters Gardens recommends dividing clumps every few years in spring to maintain vigor; adequate spacing and airflow also help keep foliage healthy. This cultivar is covered by U.S. Plant Patent PP33,612, granted November 2, 2021; this records the grant and does not state current legal status. [Walters Gardens cultivar profile](https://www.waltersgardens.com/variety.php?ID=ASTGC) · [Darwin Perennials product profile](https://www.darwinperennials.com/Products/Details/?phid=007501002002259) · [U.S. Plant Patent record](https://patents.google.com/patent/USPP33612P2/en)