Aster turbinellus

Aster turbinellus is a wild aster, its airy bushy habit gives a beautiful hazy effect. It is adorned with small lavender flower heads around a yellow heart. It is one of the last to bloom in the garden, for about three weeks, in October-November. It thrives in full sun and adapts to all soils that are not too heavy, even dry ones. Perennial and very hardy, this subtly charming aster will look stunning when paired with more sophisticated plants.

Asters belong to the asteraceae family. This species is native to the dry prairies of the central and western United States. From spring, Aster turbinellus develops into an erect, spreading, open, bushy clump. It will reach a minimum height of 120 cm when in flower and spread to 70 cm, with rapid growth. The flowering, loved by bees and butterflies, lasts from late September to early November, depending on the climate. The starry flower heads are blue-mauve-lavender to light purple with a bright yellow heart marked with purple and orange, measuring 2 cm in diameter. The flowers turn into small tufts of tawny silk threads, making this aster decorative in winter. The slender, branching stems are slightly pubescent, pale gray when young turning brown with age. The foliage is dark green with blue reflections. The basal leaves are lanceolate with smooth edges, and the stem leaves are clasping. On mature plants, the root system consists of a woody caudex with fibrous roots on its underside. The plant occasionally produces rhizomes.

Our gardens wouldn't be complete without borders or beds of asters. This one is particularly slender yet highly ornamental. It is a boon for wild gardens, large dry slopes, the back of the garden that is never watered. It pairs very well with all kinds of border plants and complements the autumn colours until the onset of winter. We suggest the following combination: Aster turbinellus, Sedum 'Purple Emperor', and Penstemon 'Mother of Pearl'. The combination of colours, foliage, and textures is delightful from summer to autumn. Group 3 or 5 Aster turbinellus plants at the back of the border, they will form a living, hazy mass in the autumn light.