Aster ericoides Herbstmyrte

The 'Herbsmyrte' Aster ericoides, also known as Symphyotichum ericoides 'Herbsmyrte' or Heath Aster, is a new variety from Germany. It is a very attractive perennial even before flowering, as it forms an evergreen shrub covered in small narrow leaves. In autumn it is covered in numerous small white flower heads with a dark yellow centre. It can be used to create very pretty bouquets, adding a lot of lightness. This plant is trouble-free: no need for staking, no diseases, and it can tolerate temporary drought.

Symphyotichum ericoides belongs to the Asteraceae family and is native to the eastern and central United States, as well as northern Mexico. 'Herbsmyrte' is a new cultivar selected for its more compact habit than the type species, and abundant flowering. The plant has an upright and bushy habit, reaching a height of 90cm (35in) to 1m (3ft), with a spread of 50cm (20in). The flowering period takes place from September (sometimes late August depending on the climate) to November. The plant is then covered in small white heads with a dark yellow centre, measuring 1cm (1in) in diameter, in pendulous panicles, attracting butterflies. The dark green foliage is very fine, composed of small pointed and lanceolate leaves, carried by thin, sturdy, and branching stems.

It is impossible to imagine our gardens without aster beds or borders. This particular variety is not very demanding in terms of soil type, and it can even tolerate drought. It pairs very well with other border plants such as Salvia microphylla, Croscomia 'Meteore', Rudbeckia triloba, or the other woodland aster, Aster cordifolius, and its cultivars 'Ideal' or 'Little Carlow'. Asters grow quickly and can fill in empty spaces in a newly planted hedge. In a garden bed, you can create different levels and rounded volumes by combining asters of different statures and sizes, for example with Aster ericoïdes prostratus 'Snow flurry'. Another idea is to pair with autumn-flowering roses - the aster's mist of small flowers perfectly enhances their beauty. This plant is also excellent for cut flowers.