New York Aster

New York aster, also called Michaelmas daisy, is a clump-forming perennial whose flowers range from purple and lavender-purple to white. It blooms in autumn, and mature size varies widely among cultivars; the Royal Horticultural Society gives a species height range of about 30 cm to 1.8 m ([RHS](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/1768/aster-novi-belgii/details), [Morton Arboretum](https://mortonarb.org/plant-and-protect/trees-and-plants/new-york-aster/)). ## Form and Placement Named cultivars differ in height, spread, flower color, and habit. Use taller forms toward the back of a border and shorter selections near paths or in containers. Their late-season flowers support bees and butterflies and combine well with ornamental grasses and other fall bloomers. ## Growing Conditions Provide full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Avoid persistently waterlogged sites, and allow good air circulation around foliage. The former botanical name Aster novi-belgii remains common in horticulture; current botanical references also use Symphyotrichum novi-belgii ([University of Illinois Extension](https://extension.illinois.edu/flowers/new-york-aster-michaelmus-daisy)). ## Maintenance Water during establishment and dry spells. Divide established clumps every few years to maintain vigor and manage spread. Taller forms may need staking; pinching before midsummer can encourage shorter, bushier growth. Cut stems back after flowering in late autumn or winter, and remove diseased foliage.