Aster turbinellus

Aster turbinellus is a wild aster, its habit as an upright shrub gives a beautiful airy effect. It is adorned with small lavender heads around a yellow heart and 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 aster with its subtle charm will be magnificent when combined with more sophisticated plants.

Asters belong to the asteraceae family. This species is native to dry prairies in the central and western United States. Aster turbinellus develops into an upright, spreading, open and bushy clump. It will reach a minimum height of 120 cm (47in) when in bloom and rapidly spread to 70 cm (28in). Bees and butterflies love the flowers from late September to early November, depending on the climate. The star-shaped heads are blue-mauve-lavender to light violet, their bright yellow heart is marked with purple and orange and measures 2 cm (1in) in diameter. The flowers transform into small tufts of bristly, tawny seeds, making this aster decorative in winter. The slender, branching stems are slightly hairy, pale grey when young turning brown with age. The foliage is dark green with blue highlights. The basal leaves are lanceolate and have smooth edges. In mature plants, the root system consists of a woody crown with fibrous roots on its underside. The plant occasionally produces rhizomes.

It is impossible to imagine our gardens without asters in their beds or borders. This one is particularly slender and very ornamental. It is a boon for wild gardens, large dry slopes, and the back of the garden that is never watered. It pairs very well with all kinds of border plants and accompanies the colours of autumn until the start 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 plants of Aster turbinellus at the back of the border, where they will form a living and airy mass in the autumn light.