Michaelmas daisy
Symphyotrichum novae-angliae
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
36"–72" H × 24"–36" W
Bloom
Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
OH
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, moths
New England aster is an upright, clump-forming perennial in the aster family with dozens of daisy-like purple flowers with yellow centers that open in late summer and fall. Its sturdy stems can reach several feet tall and often benefit from staking or an early cutback to stay compact.
In an HOA neighborhood
Michaelmas daisy is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: perennial border, foundation planting, pollinator garden.
- Can grow tall and flop without staking or an early-season cutback
Wildlife value
Host plant for pearl crescent butterfly, silvery checkerspot.
New England aster is a key late-season nectar source for migrating monarch butterflies and native bees, and serves as a larval host plant for the pearl crescent butterfly, per the Xerces Society.
Common questions
- How much sun does Michaelmas daisy need?
- Michaelmas daisy grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Michaelmas daisy bloom?
- Michaelmas daisy blooms in August, September, and October.
- Where is Michaelmas daisy native?
- Michaelmas daisy (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae) is native to OH, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What butterflies or moths does Michaelmas daisy host?
- Michaelmas daisy is a larval host plant for pearl crescent butterfly and silvery checkerspot.
- Is Michaelmas daisy HOA-friendly?
- Michaelmas daisy is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Michaelmas daisy fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.