New England aster vs Aromatic aster 'October Skies'
Both are native asters, and both are among the best late flowers for bees. New England aster is tall, four feet and more, often needs pinching or staking, and flowers in September. Aromatic aster 'October Skies' is a low, bushy mound with scented leaves that flowers later, into October, and stands drought.
 New England asterSymphyotrichum novae-angliae |  Aromatic aster 'October Skies'Symphyotrichum oblongifolium 'October Skies' | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 4 ft tall, 2½ ft wide | 20 in tall, 24 in wide |
| Plant | 2½ ft apart | 24 in apart |
| Zones | 3 to 8 | 4 to 8 |
| Light | Full sun | Full sun |
| Soil | Evenly moist, average fertility | Dry and sharply drained, average fertility |
| Flowers | Early September to mid October; purple, pink | Mid September to late October; blue |
| Leaves | Medium, herbaceous | Fine, herbaceous |
| Job in a bed | Drift | Drift |
| Pets | No toxicity recorded | No toxicity recorded |
| Deer | Not listed as resistant | Resistant |
| Native | Yes | Variety of a native |
| Spread | Moderate risk | Low risk |
Rows where they differ are marked. Flowering times are for zone 5.
Which to choose
- Choose New England aster for colder gardens (to zone 3), moist soil, more height (4 ft against 20 in) and more wildlife.
- Choose aromatic aster 'October Skies' for dry summers, deer country and a smaller space (20 in against 4 ft).
Can they grow together?
Yes: they grow in the same conditions. Beside New England aster, aromatic aster 'October Skies' is in flower together for four weeks, from mid September; low enough (20 in) to stand in front of it. They share full sun and zones 4 to 8.
Read more: all about New England aster, and all about aromatic aster 'October Skies', each with a bed the planner designed around it.