New England Aster Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 'Harrington's Pink'
ABOUT
The plant known as 'Harrington's Pink' is a New England aster variety that showcases an array of attractive features. It is distinguished by its vibrant pink blooms, which have a daisy-like shape with a prominent central disk. The flowers are densely packed with numerous slender petals radiating outward, giving the bloom a full and lush appearance. The foliage of 'Harrington's Pink' consists of green leaves that are lance-shaped, adding to the overall texture of the plant. These leaves are arranged alternately along the sturdy stems, which are robust and able to support the weight of the abundant blooms. In terms of its flowering period, 'Harrington's Pink' typically blossoms in late summer through fall. The vivid pink flowers provide a splash of color during these seasons, making it a favorite among gardeners who wish to sustain a lively garden palette through the later months of the year. This plant is valued not only for its ornamental beauty but also for its ability to attract a variety of pollinators, including butterflies and bees, which find the flowers irresistible.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
New England Aster, Harrington's Pink
Common names
Aster novae-angliae 'Harrington's Pink'.
ToxicityTo humans
New England aster 'Harrington's Pink' is generally considered a non-toxic plant to humans. There is no widespread evidence or documentation of toxicity in humans associated with this plant, and handling or ingesting it typically does not lead to poisoning. However, some individuals may experience allergic reactions or skin irritation due to personal sensitivities, particularly if they have allergies to the Asteraceae family. Ingesting any plant not intended for consumption can potentially cause gastrointestinal discomfort, so it is advisable to avoid eating this plant despite its lack of notable toxicity.
To pets
New England aster 'Harrington's Pink' is not commonly known to be toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. There is no significant evidence to suggest that pets will suffer from poisoning upon ingestion of this plant. Nonetheless, as with many ornamental plants not intended for consumption, pet owners should watch for any signs of adverse reactions if a pet does consume it, such as gastrointestinal upset, which may present as vomiting or diarrhea. It is still recommended to prevent pets from eating ornamental plants to avoid any potential risks or digestive issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
3-6 feet (0.91-1.83 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.61-0.91 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Provides nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Enhances Garden Aesthetics: Adds vibrant pink color and vertical interest to garden beds and borders.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can withstand periods of low water, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Hardy Perennial: Survives harsh winters and reemerges each spring in growing zones 3-8, reducing the need for annual replanting.
- Deer Resistance: Not typically favored by deer, which can help maintain the garden’s integrity.
- Easy to Grow: Requires minimal care once established, ideal for novice gardeners or those with limited time.
- Cut Flowers: Can be used in bouquets, providing a fresh, long-lasting option for homegrown floral arrangements.
- Extended Blooming Period: Flowers from late summer into fall, offering visual interest when many other plants have finished blooming.
- Naturalization: It can spread and create natural-looking drifts, which can be ideal for informal or cottage gardens.
- Erosion Control: Its root system can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes or banks.
- Wildlife Habitat: The foliage and stems can provide shelter for small wildlife throughout various seasons.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural fabric dye: The flowers of the New England aster can be used to create a range of pink hues in the natural dyeing of fabrics.
- In floral photography: The vibrant color and lush appearance of the 'Harrington's Pink' variety make it a popular subject for photographers specializing in botanical and nature photography.
- Educational tool: Horticulture and botany programs may utilize the New England aster to teach students about plant breeding, pollination, and the survival strategies of perennials.
- Artistic inspiration: Artists may draw inspiration from the striking appearance of the 'Harrington's Pink' for paintings, drawings, and other artistic creations.
- As a biodegradable confetti: Petals of the New England aster can be dried and used as a natural, eco-friendly alternative to traditional confetti at celebrations.
- In homemade potpourri: The colorful flowers can be dried and added to potpourri mixes for a touch of natural color and a subtle floral scent.
- For bookmark crafting: Pressed flowers of the New England aster can be used in the creation of decorative bookmarks.
- As part of sensory gardens: The plant's texture and color provide a stimulating experience in gardens designed for sensory engagement, especially for the visually impaired.
- Garden photography workshops: The New England aster, with its striking pink flowers, can serve as an ideal subject for garden photography classes and workshops.
- As a natural ink: The petals can potentially be boiled down to create a natural ink for arts and crafts, giving a unique and personal touch to handwritten letters or drawings.
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- New Beginnings: Symphyotrichum novae-angliae, commonly known as New England Aster, often symbolizes new adventures or fresh starts due to its late blooming in the year, indicative of the end of one cycle and the beginning of another.
- Elegance and Daintiness: With 'Harrington's Pink' being a variety with delicate pink petals, it represents elegance and delicacy, akin to the soft and gentle nature of its appearance.
- Patience and Longevity: The New England Aster is a perennial, returning year after year, which symbolizes endurance, longevity, and the patience required to see long-term plans come to fruitition.
- Love and Affection: Flowers, particularly those with an attractive and vivid appearance like the 'Harrington's Pink', can represent love and affection, serving as a token of these sentiments.
- Faith and Wisdom: Asters are thought to hold the symbolism of wisdom in their beauty, and the purple coloration of many asters, though not specifically 'Harrington's Pink', is traditionally associated with royalty and spirituality, which could translate into faith and wisdom.
WaterNew England Aster 'Harrington's Pink' prefers consistent moisture, particularly during its active growth in the spring and summer. Water deeply once a week, providing about one inch of water each time, which roughly equates to 0.62 gallons per square foot. During periods of drought or extreme heat, you may need to water more frequently. Avoid overhead watering to prevent foliar diseases, focusing instead on the base of the plant. During the fall and winter, when the plant is dormant, reduce watering frequency accordingly.
LightNew England Aster 'Harrington's Pink' thrives in full sun conditions, where it can receive at least six hours of direct light daily. The best spot for this plant would be in a location where it is exposed to unfiltered sunlight for most of the day, though it can tolerate some light shade, especially in hotter climates.
TemperatureNew England Aster 'Harrington's Pink' is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from winter lows of around -30°F to summer highs of over 90°F. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60°F and 75°F, conditions typically found in its native environment during the growing season.
PruningNew England Aster 'Harrington's Pink' should be pruned to encourage a bushier growth habit and prevent flopping, which is typically done in the early summer by cutting back the growth by one-third. Additionally, deadheading spent flowers can promote a longer blooming season. After blooming has finished in the fall, the plant can be cut back to the ground to keep the area tidy and help control diseases.
CleaningAs needed
SoilNew England Aster 'Harrington's Pink' thrives in well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH of 6.0 to 8.0. A good mix consists of garden soil, compost, and peat or perlite for improved drainage. Regular amending with organic matter will help maintain soil fertility and structure.
RepottingNew England Asters like 'Harrington's Pink' do not typically require frequent repotting and do well being repotted every 2-3 years. It's best to repot in the spring before the onset of new growth.
Humidity & MistingNew England Aster 'Harrington's Pink' tolerates a wide range of humidity levels but prefers moderate conditions. It does not require high humidity and can thrive in the natural humidity found outdoors.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure ample sunlight and well-draining soil mix.
Outdoor
Plant in sun, provide ample space, and use well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe New England Aster 'Harrington's Pink' begins its life as a seed, which typically germinates in spring when soil temperatures warm. Following germination, the plant enters a vegetative growth phase where it develops a rosette of leaves at the soil's surface and an extensive root system. This perennial builds energy and mass through its foliage, using photosynthesis to grow stems and leaves during the spring and summer months. In late summer to early fall, the plant enters its reproductive phase, producing tall stems with clusters of vibrant pink flowers that attract pollinators and result in seed production. After flowering, seeds are dispersed around the parent plant, allowing for new individuals to start the cycle over. The plant then enters a period of senescence with the arrival of cooler temperatures in fall, dying back to the ground after frost, but its root system remains alive to resprout the following year.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer to early fall
The New England Aster 'Harrington's Pink' can be propagated most effectively through division. This is best done in the spring, just as new growth is starting to appear. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant, ensuring a good amount of roots are attached. Gently tease apart or cut through the root ball to create several smaller clumps, each with its own set of roots and shoots. These clumps can then be immediately replanted into prepared soil, spaced about 18 inches (approximately 45.7 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them. Over time, these divisions will grow into mature plants and can be divided again to create more New England Asters.
