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.
Habitat
Found in moist meadows, stream banks, roadsides, and forest edges across eastern and central North America.
Diet
Critical fall nectar source for monarch butterflies; supports over 100 specialist and generalist bee species.
How common
Common
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