New England Aster Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 'Brunswick'
ABOUT
The 'Brunswick' variant of the New England aster is recognized for its enchanting floral display. This perennial plant showcases a profusion of daisy-like flowers with vibrant purple petals surrounding a yellow to orange-hued central disc. The flowers are prominent during the fall, lasting from late summer until frost. They form dense clusters that provide a spectacular burst of color in the garden. The petals radiate outward from the central disc in a symmetrical fashion, giving each bloom a classic aster appearance, and they are known to attract butterflies and other pollinators. In addition to the striking flowers, the New England aster 'Brunswick' has dense and bushy green foliage. The leaves are lance-shaped with smooth edges, and they clasp around the sturdy stems. These leaves can provide a lush backdrop for the bright flowers, creating contrasting textures and adding to the overall visual appeal of the plant. As it blooms prolifically, this aster variant makes a stunning addition to garden borders, wildflower meadows, or any naturalized area where a splash of late-season color is desired.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
New England Aster, Brunswick.
Common names
Aster novae-angliae 'Brunswick'.
ToxicityTo humans
The New England aster is generally considered non-toxic to humans. Ingesting parts of this plant is typically not associated with serious poisoning or significant symptoms. However, as with any non-food plant, consuming plant material can potentially cause mild stomach upset in some individuals due to the presence of various plant compounds.
To pets
The New England aster is also typically non-toxic to pets. It is not commonly associated with poisoning in animals, and ingesting parts of this plant is unlikely to cause more than mild gastrointestinal upset if anything at all. However, individual reactions can vary, and it is always best to prevent pets from consuming non-food plants.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
3-6 feet (0.91-1.83 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.61-0.91 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4-8
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Wildlife: Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 'Brunswick', commonly known as New England Aster, is excellent for attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to the garden.
- Garden Aesthetics: With its vibrant purple flowers, this plant adds color and visual interest from late summer into fall, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, New England Aster is relatively drought-tolerant, suitable for xeriscaping and low-water garden designs.
- Easy to Grow: It is generally easy to cultivate in the right conditions and does not require extensive horticultural expertise.
- Erosion Control: The plant's root system can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes and in areas with loose soil.
- Provides Nectar: The flowers offer a late-season nectar source for insects, helping to sustain their populations as cooler weather approaches.
- Cultural Significance: As a native North American species, it has ecological importance and can be used in native plant gardens and restoration projects.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it a good choice for gardeners with limited time or those new to gardening.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- New England aster can be utilized as a natural fabric dye, providing colors that range from dark blues to purples and even grey shades.
- The slightly fuzzy leaves can be used in craft projects where a touch of natural texture is desired, such as in scrapbooking or pressed flower art.
- Culinary enthusiasts sometimes use the flowers as an edible garnish to add a splash of color to salads and desserts.
- Artists may use the stems and leaves to create botanical prints on paper or fabric, a process that transfers the pigments and shapes of the plant to other materials.
- In photography, the vivid flowers of the New England aster can be used to create dreamy, bokeh backgrounds in close-up photographs of insects and small wildlife.
- Gardeners can use this plant as a natural border to deter certain pests, due to its strong scent and dense growth habit.
- The sturdy stems of the New England aster can be used in basket weaving to add strength and a pop of natural color.
- Ecologically, planting New England aster can provide erosion control thanks to its extensive root system which holds soil in place.
- Floral designers can incorporate dried New England aster blooms into wreaths and dried flower arrangements for a touch of autumn allure.
- The New England aster's vibrant flowers can be used in the classroom to help teach children about plant biology and pollination as they attract a variety of pollinators.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe New England Aster is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe New England Aster is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Peace: The New England Aster, as it blooms with a calm beauty, is often associated with tranquility and the peaceful passing of seasons.
- Patience: It grows and blooms later in the year, symbolizing the value of patience and the rewards of waiting for the right moment.
- Wisdom: The long-lasting nature of the aster suggests a deep-seated wisdom, akin to the elder knowledge that comes with the passage of time.
- Elegance: With its graceful form and vibrant purple color, the New England Aster embodies a simple, understated elegance.
- Variety: The numerous species and varieties of asters, including the 'Brunswick', represent diversity and the beauty that lies within it.
- Faith: The star-like shape of the flower symbolizes faith and the idea of guidance like the stars in the sky.
- New Beginnings: The aster's role in heralding the arrival of autumn can signify new beginnings and the start of a new chapter.
WaterNew England Aster should be watered regularly, especially during its growing season in the spring and summer. This plant prefers evenly moist soil, so water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Typically, this would be about once a week, but frequency can vary based on climate conditions and soil type. When watering, soak the soil thoroughly to ensure water reaches the deep roots without leaving the plant waterlogged. Depending on the size of the plant and the weather, you might need about 1 to 2 gallons of water per week.
LightNew England Aster thrives in full sun conditions, meaning it should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. The best spot for this plant is in an area that gets unfiltered sunlight for the most part of the day. However, it can also tolerate partial shade, particularly in the afternoon when the sun is at its hottest.
TemperatureNew England Aster prefers moderate temperatures and can handle a range between 40°F and 70°F as ideal growing conditions. However, it's capable of surviving occasional dips below this range, down to freezing temperatures, and can tolerate summer highs well above 70°F. Avoid planting in locations prone to extreme heat above 85°F for prolonged periods, as it may stress the plant.
PruningPruning New England Aster is important for maintaining its shape, encouraging bushy growth, and maximizing flowering. Prune the plant in early spring by cutting back the previous year's growth to about 4 to 6 inches above ground level. This should be done just as new shoots are starting to appear. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers during the blooming season, will also promote further blooming and prevent unwanted self-seeding.
CleaningAs needed
SoilNew England Aster 'Brunswick' thrives in well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. A mix of garden soil, compost, and perlite will ensure proper drainage and fertility. Mulching helps maintain soil moisture and temperature.
RepottingNew England Aster 'Brunswick' does not usually require frequent repotting as it is typically grown as a perennial outdoor plant. Divide clumps every 2-3 years in spring to rejuvenate and maintain vigor.
Humidity & MistingNew England Aster 'Brunswick' is adaptable to a wide range of humidity levels and does not require any special humidity conditions. This plant thrives well in the natural outdoor environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
New England Aster 'Brunswick' needs bright light and room to grow indoors.
Outdoor
Place 'Brunswick' in full sun and well-drained soil outdoors.
Hardiness zone
New England Aster 'Brunswick' is suitable for 4-8 USDA.
Life cycleThe New England aster 'Brunswick' (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 'Brunswick') begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in the spring when soil temperatures reach a suitable level for growth. Seedlings emerge and establish a rosette of leaves at ground level, which will remain over winter if the plant is a perennial form. The plant enters a vegetative growth phase during the late spring and summer, producing more leaves and stems and increasing in overall size. In late summer to autumn, 'Brunswick' begins its reproductive stage, developing flower heads composed of purple to pinkish rays around yellow central discs that attract pollinators. After pollination, seeds develop in the form of achenes that can be dispersed by wind, allowing for the colonization of new areas. During the winter months, above-ground parts of the plant die back, while the root system remains dormant until temperatures rise again in spring, closing the annual cycle for perennials or ending the life cycle for its biennial forms.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer to early fall
The most popular method of propagation for Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 'Brunswick', commonly known as New England Aster 'Brunswick', is through division. The best time for dividing this plant is in the early spring as new growth begins or in the late fall after the plant has finished flowering and begins to go dormant. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire clump of the aster, ensuring to keep a good amount of soil around the roots. Using a sharp spade or knife, divide the clump into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a healthy root system. Replant the divisions promptly, spacing them approximately 18 inches (about 45 centimeters) apart to allow for ample growth, and water them thoroughly. This method rejuvenates established plants and provides new plants to expand the garden or share with fellow gardeners.
