Asters, Native Plant of New York

By Carol Sitarski, Master Gardener Volunteer, Cornell Cooperative Extension Allegany County

A native plant is a species that naturally occurs in a specific region, evolving with the local climate, soil, and wildlife. These plants support the local ecosystem by providing habitat and food for native animals and insects.

In this native plant list, we can find Asters. Asters are in the Asteraceae family and the Symphyotrichum classification of around 120 natives to North America and 7 in New York State. The name Aster is taken from a Greek word meaning “celestial” or “star”. This is the time of year when they show their star-like daisy blooms from purple, blue, white, or light pink. They can range from 18 inches to 7 feet in height, and rank very high on pollen and nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. They are perennial spreading by seed or underground roots, they can live in full sun and partial shade and do well in most soils.

You may see these growing along roads, hiking, or in your yard. Some of the varieties of asters are:

• New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae) bright purple to pink flowers and a yellow center.
• New York Aster (Symphyotrichum novi-belgii) blue-purple flowers and a yellow center.
• Wood Aster (Eurybia divaricate) white flowers and yellow center.
• Calico Aster (Symphyotrichum lateriflorum) are small white flowers, usually causing the plant to lean on its side, and various colored center like calico fabric.
• Small, White-flowered Aster (Symphyotrichum racemosa) small, white flowers with a yellow center.
• Flat-topped Aster (Doellingeria umbellate) tall plants, clumps of white flowers, with a yellow center on top.
• Wavy-leaved Aster (Symphyotrichum undulatum) large bright bunches of white flowers and yellow centers.

As far as native plants go, these could be ranked very high for beauty, ease of care, and pollinator/insect attractiveness. Also, I might add Indigenous tribes as well, as herbalists use the Aster plant from the flowers to the roots for treatment of various illnesses such as earaches, stomach problems, congestion, and many more issues.

Many nurseries are now offering these plants for sale, but I would advise you to do your research before purchasing because not only do they sell natives but also cultivars (also known as “nativars”) and there are research projects showing that these may not have exact qualities to attract insects due to change in leaf or flower color.

Growing asters can be a rewarding gardening project, not only because you're helping to preserve native species, but also because you can enjoy beautiful flowers and vibrant colors at home while attracting beneficial insects to support your garden ecosystem. And remember, if you have any questions on this or other gardening issues, contact your local cooperative extension office, their educators and group of Master Gardeners will be happy to assist you with your gardening projects.

Last updated October 11, 2024