Symphyotrichum novi-belgii ‘Blue Lagoon’

Flowers - close-up
Flowers - close-up
Whole plant in border
Whole plant in border
Family:
Asteraceae
Synonyms:

Aster novi-belgii 

Common Names:
Michaelmas daisy, New York aster
Type:
Herbaceous perennials
Description and Uses:

Symphyotrichum novi-belgii ‘Blue Lagoon’ is a dwarf, clump-forming, herbaceous perennial up to 60cm in height and spread of 0.5m in 3-5 years. It has dark green, lance-shaped leaves and panicles of lavender-blue flowers late summer to autumn. The Michaelmas daisies and related species were recently assigned to their own genus since they were found to be more closely related to golden rod (Solidago) than they are to European species of Aster.

Long-flowering and attractive to insects (butterflies and bees). RHS plant for pollinators.

Seed heads are an attractive feature through the autumn. Useful cut flower. Popular in prairie style planting. Cottage gardens, cut flowers.

Cultivation Requirements:

Grow in moist but well-drained, fertile soil in full sun.

Cut down in late autumn or winter.

Best divided and replanted every third year to maintain vigour.

Planting:

Best planted in the spring to avoid winter wet.

Problems:

Symphyotrichum novi-belgii are prone to powdery mildew but this cultivar seems quite resistant. Mostly pest free although slugs may attack new growth.

Propagation:

Propagate by division in early spring.