Pink Crush New England Aster

‘Pink Crush’ New England Aster – Care Guide

Overview

‘Pink Crush’ is a compact, vibrant cultivar of the New England Aster (Aster novae-angliae), known for its rosy-pink, daisy-like flowers that bloom prolifically in late summer to fall. It forms a dense, upright mound and is beloved by pollinators, especially monarch butterflies during fall migration. This selection offers a tidy, mildew-resistant habit and thrives in cold prairie climates.

Key Characteristics

• Botanical Name: Symphyotrichum novae-angliae ‘Pink Crush’

• Common Name: Pink Crush New England Aster

• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial

• Hardiness Zones: 3–8

• Height: 18–24 inches (45–60 cm)

• Spread: 24–36 inches (60–90 cm)

• Bloom Time: Late summer to mid-fall (August to October in Zone 3)

• Flower Color: Bright pink with golden-yellow centers

• Foliage: Narrow, rough-textured green leaves

• Habit: Upright, dense, bushy mound

Sun Requirements

• Prefers full sun (6+ hours/day)

• Can tolerate light shade, but flowering may be reduced and plant may become floppy

Watering Needs

• Moderate water needs — water deeply when establishing

• Drought-tolerant once established, but benefits from consistent moisture during bloom

• Avoid overhead watering to reduce mildew risk

Soil Preferences

• Grows best in well-drained, loamy soil

• Tolerates clay, sandy, and average garden soils

• pH: Neutral to slightly acidic (6.0–7.0)

• Does not like soggy or overly rich soils

Maintenance Tips

• Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continued flowering

• Cut back in late fall or early spring after stems die back

• May benefit from a mid-season pinch (late June) to encourage bushiness and prevent flopping

• Divide every 3–5 years in early spring to maintain vigor

Pollinator & Wildlife Benefits

• Excellent for pollinators, especially late-season bees, butterflies, and migrating monarchs

• Provides nectar when many other flowers have finished blooming

• Deer-resistant and rarely bothered by rabbits

Pests & Disease

• Resistant to powdery mildew, a common issue with older aster varieties

• Watch for:

  • Occasional aphids

  • Fungal leaf spots in very wet conditions

• Ensure good air circulation and avoid overcrowding

Garden Uses

• Pollinator and butterfly gardens

• Cottage gardens

• Late-season borders

• Mass plantings or drifts in prairie-style gardens

• Excellent cut flower for fall arrangements

Zone 3 Notes

• Very cold-hardy and reliable perennial for harsh winters

• In exposed sites, mulch with straw or leaves in late fall for root protection

• Will die back to the ground and re-sprout in spring

Special Features

• Compact habit makes it suitable for smaller garden spaces and containers

• Developed for disease resistance, long bloom period, and vibrant color

• Excellent as a native-friendly alternative to mums for fall color

Photo courtesy of Proven Winners