Symphyotrichum novi-belgii


Symphyotrichum novi-belgii also known as New York aster is the type species for Symphyotrichum, a genus of the family Asteraceae whose species were once considered to be part of the genus Aster. This species grows in abandoned fields and wet meadows in eastern Canada and the northeastern United States. It is popularly known as "Michaelmas daisy" because it blooms around September 29 which is St. Michael’s Day.

Distribution

;Native:
Source: GRIN

Cultivation

This is the largest group of Michaelmas daisies, with over 1,000 named cultivars. They are valued for their late summer color in shades of blue, pink and white. They are best planted in an open, sunny position. While extremely tough, they are susceptible to fungal infections, especially if conditions are not ideal. The cultivar 'Fellowship' has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

Etymology

Novi-belgii means 'from New York', which was formerly named Novum Belgium.