Aster, Grape Crush

Grape Crush Aster

Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 'Grape Crush'

Height: 26-30in
Spread: 40-44in
Zone: 3-8
Exposure: Full sun
Bloom Time/Color: August-October; purple
Uses: Massing, specimen, prairies 
Maintenance: Low
Other: Cut flower, native

New England asters are prized for their vivid splash of color in autumn and 'Grape Crush' glows in the perennial border. Masses of purple disk flowers with yellow centers cover plants by late summer and attract butterflies and other pollinators. Flowers sit on top of narrow, hairy medium-green leaves and benefit from being pinched back one or two times during the spring/summer months to promote fall blooms. 'Grape Crush' is more compact/stout than its native cousins, does not need staking nor does it get leggy, and grows best in moist, well-drained soils. It is also tolerant of clay soils. Good cut flower.