Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 'Purple Dome'
Purple Dome New England Aster

- Family
- Asteraceae
- Height
- 18 to 24 inches
- Width
- 24 to 36 inches
- Flower color
- Rich purple daisy like flowers with golden yellow centers
- Foliage color
- Medium green lance shaped leaves along sturdy branching stems
- Bloom time
- Late summer to late fall
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Moderate moisture
- Maintenance
- Low; pinch stems in early summer for compact growth and divide clumps every few years
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 4 to 8
- Wildlife
- Attracts bees, butterflies and other pollinators
About this plant
Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 'Purple Dome' forms dense clumps of sturdy stems clothed in narrow, slightly rough green leaves that create a compact mound through the growing season. In late summer through fall, the plant becomes covered with numerous daisy like flowers in rich violet purple, each bloom centered with a golden yellow disk that gradually deepens with age.
The species originates from eastern and central North America, where it grows in meadows and open landscapes. In garden settings, 'Purple Dome' is valued for borders, pollinator gardens, and naturalistic plantings, where its abundant fall flowers provide color and support for late season bees and butterflies.
Works well in
Borders · Sun Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Rain Gardens · Containers
Companion plants
Coreopsis · Bearded irises · Bee balm · Yarrow · Ornamental grasses · Garden phlox
Design tip
Late flowers extend the season, so set it behind or beside plants that finish in midsummer. In full sun it holds its shape best, and grouping several together keeps the color strong enough to be seen from across the garden.
