Japanese aster and New England aster are often considered for the same spot in the garden (flowers, pollinator friendly). The data below shows where they differ: size, hardiness, care, toxicity and price.
Aster ageratoides 70 cm × 60 cm after 10 years
A very tough, late-flowering aster: from late summer until the frosts it is covered in a haze of pale lilac, white or pinkish flowers, in sun or…
Aster novae-angliae 1.3 m × 80 cm after 10 years
A tall, stiff-stemmed autumn perennial that carries masses of purple, pink or carmine flowers with yellow centres from late August to October, just…
New England aster is hardier: down to -34 °C, against -23 °C for Japanese aster.
Japanese aster needs less care than New England aster.
|
Feature
|
Japanese aster
|
New England aster
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Perennial | Perennial |
| Size after 10 years | 70 cm × 60 cm | 1.3 m × 80 cm |
| Ultimate size | 0.4–1 m × 30–60 cm | 0.9–1.8 m × 60–90 cm |
| Growth rate | Fast | Medium |
| Light | Full sun, Part shade | Full sun |
| Soil | Average garden soil, Clay, Sandy, Calcareous | Average garden soil, Clay |
| Hardiness | down to -23 °C (USDA 6, RHS H7) | down to -34 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) |
| Foliage | Deciduous | Deciduous |
| Flowering | August–November, purple, white, pink | August–October, purple, pink, red |
| Water need | Medium | Medium |
| Drought tolerance | Medium | Medium |
| Maintenance | Low | Medium |
| Planting distance | 40 cm | 60 cm |
| For dogs | Non-toxic (uncertain) | Non-toxic (uncertain) |
| For cats | Non-toxic (uncertain) | Non-toxic (uncertain) |
| For children | Non-toxic | Non-toxic |
| Typical price | approx. €5.50 | approx. €5 |
Prices are rounded, indicative values. Toxicity data is for information only. If your pet or child has eaten a plant, contact a vet or a doctor. Data updated: October 13, 2026
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