Purple-stemmed Aster
Symphyotrichum puniceum
Do you have a low spot in your yard that never seems to drain after a rain? Some plants absolutely thrive under those conditions. Happiest in sunny wet or moist spots, Purple-stemmed Aster will give crucial late season pollen to our bees, skippers and butterflies, as well as give you something much prettier to look at than a puddle. Stiff reddish/purple stems provide a stunning contrast to bright green leaves and 1″ wide flowers that put on a long show from September through October.
Conditions: Full sun to part shade; wet to moist soil
Size: 3′ – 6′ tall
Zone: 3 – 8
Wildlife Value: Flowers attract many butterflies, hover flies, pollinating wasps, and native bee species, including several pollen specialists; larval host for over 100 butterflies and moth species
