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Aster novae-angliae 'Purple Dome' (1 Gallon) is a vibrant perennial known for its compact, bushy growth and stunning purple blooms. It adds a splash of color to late summer and fall gardens and is a favorite for its durability and beauty.
Description:
- Dimensions: Grows to a height of 12-18 inches with a spread of 18-24 inches. Forms a dense, rounded mound of foliage covered in bright purple flowers.
- Sun Exposure: Thrives in full sun to partial shade, ideally receiving at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. It can tolerate light shade but will bloom best with ample sun.
- Water Requirements: Prefers well-drained soil and is moderately drought-tolerant once established. Water regularly during dry periods to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Hardiness Zones: Hardy in Zones 4-8.
- Bloom Time: Blooms from late summer to early fall, producing an abundance of vibrant purple, daisy-like flowers with yellow centers. The blooms attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
- Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming and maintain a tidy appearance. Cut back the entire plant in late fall or early spring to encourage fresh growth.
How to Plant:
- Location: Ideal for garden beds, borders, and containers. Prefers well-drained soil and a sunny location, but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Soil Preparation: Use well-draining soil. Amend with compost to improve soil fertility and structure.
- Planting: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and the same depth. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
- Spacing: Space plants 18-24 inches apart to allow for their mature spread and ensure good air circulation.
- Watering: Water thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent moisture throughout the growing season. Reduce watering in the fall as the plant goes dormant.
Fun Fact: Aster novae-angliae 'Purple Dome', commonly known as New England Aster, is named after its vibrant purple flowers that resemble a dome shape when in full bloom. It’s a resilient plant that not only adds color to the garden but also provides crucial late-season nectar for pollinators. This variety is particularly valued for its compact size, making it an excellent choice for smaller gardens or as a foreground plant in larger beds.