Symphyotrichum (Aster) novi-belgii 'Alice Haslam' (New York Aster)

Symphyotrichum novi-belgii (syn. Aster novi-belgii) 'Alice Haslam' is a cultivar of New York aster, a native perennial wildflower. Noted for its compact growth habit over the species, 'Alice Haslam' reaches a mature compact size of only 12-18" tall and wide, making it ideal for small spaces and containers. Found in the wild along much of the eastern seaboard, New York aster, typically grows in wetland areas, including both fresh water and brackish marshes. Like many showy asters of the northeast, New York aster produces late-season flowers from the end of summer to mid-autumn, but unlike other showy asters, the 'Alice Haslam' cultivar is noted for its vibrant pink and yellow star-like flowers. While in bloom, flowers are a fantastic late-season food source for a variety of pollinators, and after they finish, their seed is valuable forage for a number of fall and winter songbirds.

Preferring full-sun locations with average soils, Symphyotrichum novi-belgii can also tolerate part shade, salt, and a variety of soil conditions, but the 'Alice Haslam' cultivar is slightly less tolerant to inundation and standing water than the straight species, due to its smaller stature. In addition to pollinator appeal, New York aster is an important host plant for several butterfly species, including the silvery checkerspot (Chlosyne nycteis) and pearl crescent (Phyciodes tharos) butterflies. Beyond ecological appeal and hardiness, 'Alice Haslam' New Yrok aster is an excellent pick for a variety of gardens thanks to its stunning floral show and beautiful, compact size.