Purple Dome Aster

Size

The Purple Dome Aster is a late-season stunner. This perennial begins to bloom near the end of the summer and continues to flower through the fall. The dense plant has a mounded upright growth habit, and once this beauty blooms, the entire plant will be covered in 2-inch wide purple flowers that inspire the name purple dome. Each flower has thin, wispy petals in a lavender hue. The tall, branched stems of the Aster novae-angliae have narrow, deep green leaves. Aster is a low-maintenance plant that does very well in beds, mass plantings, or borders. The flowers can be cut for use in arrangements. This cultivar provides late-season color, with the purple flowers providing a nice contrast against the reds and oranges typical of fall plants. Grow this plant as a perennial in USDA zones 3 through 8. Purple Dome Aster Care Aster needs full sunlight and rich, moist, but well-drained soil. This plant has average water needs and will require a weekly watering routine. Spread organic compost around the base of the plant to promote new growth. Aster is not a heavy feeder, so top-dressing the soil with compost is enough to support the plant. Pinch back or deadhead the plant to encourage more flowers. Cut back all of the growth in the fall, after the last of the flowers fade. Purple Dome Aster Spacing Purple Dome Aster is a dwarf perennial that will grow 15 to 18 inches tall and 18 to 24 inches wide. Aster can be spaced 18 to 20 inches apart when creating a mass planting.