Aster novi-belgii Eventide

Aster novi-belgii 'Eventide' is a hardy perennial that blooms between September and October in a multitude of flowers resembling small mauve semi-double daisies. The somewhat creeping stump produces ramified stems, adorned with lanceolate, dark green and glossy leaves.

Aster novi-belgii 'Eventide' is a tall Aster, reaching 80 cm (32in) in height, hardy and easy to grow. At a time when most perennials start to tire, this aster takes over with panache. Its mauve flowers with bright yellow centres bring life to the garden in early autumn. It thrives in sun or light shade, sheltered from strong winds, in rich and moist soil. You can plant it at the back of a flowerbed, combined with shrubs bearing yellow or orange autumn foliage, or with other late-flowering perennials such as echinaceas or helianthus. Heucheras offer an excellent contrast of warm colours, and fine-leaved grasses bring lightness to your composition. These asters also make excellent cut flowers.

The genus Aster is extremely diverse and comes in a wide range of colours, with varieties available in all sizes. Depending on the cultivars, it is possible to extend the flowering period right through from spring to late autumn, allowing gardening enthusiasts to enjoy these lovely daisy-like flowers, with their rustic charm, for a large part of the year.