New England aster and New York 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 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…
Aster novi-belgii 1.2 m × 90 cm after 10 years
A tall, upright perennial that is covered in violet, blue, pink or white daisies from late summer to mid autumn, when little else is in flower, and…
New York aster: We do not recommend it because it is on the EU or the Hungarian list of invasive species.
New England aster grows larger: 1.3 m × 80 cm after ten years, against 1.2 m × 90 cm for New York aster.
New England aster tolerates drought better than New York aster.
|
Feature
|
New England aster
|
New York aster
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Perennial | Perennial |
| Size after 10 years | 1.3 m × 80 cm | 1.2 m × 90 cm |
| Ultimate size | 0.9–1.8 m × 60–90 cm | 0.9–1.5 m × 30–90 cm |
| Growth rate | Medium | no data |
| Light | Full sun | Full sun, Part shade |
| Soil | Average garden soil, Clay | Average garden soil, Clay, Sandy |
| Hardiness | down to -34 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) | down to -34 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) |
| Foliage | Deciduous | Deciduous |
| Flowering | August–October, purple, pink, red | August–October, purple, blue, pink, white |
| Water need | Medium | Medium |
| Drought tolerance | Medium | Low |
| Maintenance | Medium | Medium |
| Planting distance | 60 cm | 50 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. €5.90 | approx. €6.90 |
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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