Wood's Blue Aster

Wood's Blue Aster (Aster dumosus 'Wood's Blue')

Wood's Blue Aster (Aster dumosus 'Wood's Blue'), also known as Dwarf New York Aster, is a compact, low-growing perennial cherished for its abundant soft blue, daisy-like flowers that bloom from late summer to fall. This mildew-resistant variety provides long-lasting color and attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it an excellent choice for borders, containers, and rock gardens.

Distinctive Features

Wood's Blue Aster forms a dense, bushy mound of fine-textured, dark green foliage that remains attractive throughout the season. Its soft blue flowers, with bright yellow centers, create a striking contrast in the autumn landscape. This variety is highly resistant to powdery mildew, making it a reliable performer even in humid conditions.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Prefers full sun for optimal flowering.
• Soil: Thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soil.
• Water: Moderate watering needs; prefers evenly moist soil but tolerates short dry spells.
• Humidity: Adaptable to a range of humidity levels.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-8, making it suitable for temperate climates.

Ideal Uses

• Pollinator Gardens: Provides essential late-season nectar for bees and butterflies.
• Rock Gardens: Compact growth habit makes it an excellent ground cover.
• Edging and Borders: Adds vibrant fall color to perennial beds.
• Mass Planting: Creates a bold seasonal display when grouped.
• Container Gardening: Well-suited for pots and planters due to its manageable size.

Low Maintenance Care

Wood's Blue Aster is a hardy, easy-to-grow perennial requiring minimal upkeep.

• Watering: Water regularly during establishment; tolerates occasional dry spells.
• Pruning: Deadhead spent blooms to extend the flowering period.
• Fertilizing: Benefits from compost or a light application of fertilizer in early spring.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Highly resistant to powdery mildew and generally pest-free.
• Winter Care: Cut back stems in late fall or leave for winter interest.

Why Choose Wood's Blue Aster?

Wood's Blue Aster is a standout choice for compact gardens, offering brilliant color and pollinator support.

• Profuse Soft Blue Blooms: Creates a delicate yet vibrant autumn display.
• Compact and Bushy Habit: Ideal for borders, rock gardens, and containers.
• Attracts Pollinators: Supports bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects.
• Resistant to Disease: Excellent resistance to powdery mildew.
• Low Maintenance: Requires little care once established.

For a reliable, compact, and pollinator-friendly perennial that enhances autumn landscapes, Wood's Blue Aster (Aster dumosus 'Wood's Blue') is an outstanding choice.