Aster ‘Grape Crush’ 2Gal

Latin Name: Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 'Grape Crush' (also classified as Aster novae-angliae 'Grape Crush')

Common Name: Grape Crush New England Aster

Zones: 3–8

Height & Spread: 26–30 inches tall, spreading 40–44 inches wide

Descriptive Features: A refined, patented selection of the beloved native New England aster, bred to eliminate the lodging (flopping) that plagues many fall-blooming asters — trial evaluations reported no lodging whatsoever. Forms a large, exceptionally round, densely packed mound of dark green foliage, filling out to a considerably wider spread than height for a lush, tidy silhouette. In early to mid-fall, the plant is smothered in rich, deep grape-purple flowers so densely produced that the blooms nearly obscure the foliage, providing a dramatic, vibrant finale to the fading autumn garden. An outstanding late-season nectar source, drawing bees, butterflies, and migrating Monarchs when little else is in bloom, and the seed heads provide valuable food for birds if left standing into winter. Adaptable to a range of well-drained soils from clay to sandy, and salt-tolerant. Deer- and rabbit-resistant, low-maintenance, and reliably cold-hardy. An excellent choice for the middle to back of borders, mass plantings, cutting gardens, or naturalized meadow-style plantings in full sun.