Aster dumosus Starlight

Aster dumosus 'Starlight' is a robust perennial that blooms between August and October, with a multitude of dark pink semi-double flowers. The flower heads resemble small brightly coloured daisies. The running stump emits ramified stems, adorned with dark green lanceolate leaves.

Aster dumosus 'Starlight' is of modest size, not exceeding 30cm (12in) in height. Its very compact habit makes it an ideal candidate for rock gardens, containers, and flower beds. It is also suitable for use as a border plant to brighten up autumn compositions at a time when summer flowering is well and truly over. Easy to grow and very hardy, it thrives in sunny or slightly shaded positions in rich, moist soil.

For beautiful combinations, consider, for example, grasses with slender foliage, or tall sedums and heucheras with colourful foliage.

Asters belong to the Asteraceae family, which mainly includes herbaceous plants. It is a highly diversified genus that offers a multitude of species in a wide range of colours. The most well-known asters bloom in autumn like this one, but if you are a fan of this somewhat rustic flowering, consider summer and spring asters as well.