Pink Crush New England Aster (Aster novae-angliae 'Pink Crush')

Pink Crush New England Aster (Aster novae-angliae 'Pink Crush') is a dwarf perennial with a dense, mounded habit and rough, hairy, lance-shaped green leaves. Large magenta flowers with lacy petals bloom in tight clusters from late summer until the first frost.

The blooms attract butterflies and bees, bringing activity and late-season color to garden plantings. The species is native to North America, including the Southeast.

Growing details

• Plant type: Perennial
• Species origin: North America, including the Southeast
• Mature height: 1.5–2 feet
• Mature spread: 2–3 feet
• Spacing: Approximately 2.5 feet apart
• Hardiness: USDA zones 3–8
• Light: Full sun to part sun; best in full sun
• Soil: Rich, moist soil
• Flowers: Magenta blooms with lacy petals
• Bloom season: Late summer until the first frost
• Foliage: Rough, hairy, lance-shaped green leaves

Care and garden use

This low-maintenance perennial can self-seed. Cut back flower stalks after flowering to prevent self-seeding where it is unwanted.

Use as an accent or in grouped plantings, borders, wildlife gardens, naturalized areas, or containers with room for its mature spread. Pair with fleabane, Stokes' aster, or fountain grass for contrasting flowers and textures.

Image credit: Ball Seed, Aster novae-angliae Pink Crush. Plants naturally vary in appearance and may differ from the images shown.