How to Grow Aster novi-belgii 'Coombe Fishacre'
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Aster novi-belgii 'Coombe Fishacre'
Symphyotrichum novi-belgii 'Coombe Fishacre'
flowerA cultivar of New York aster, this is a compact perennial that produces masses of small, daisy-like flowers with purple-blue petals and golden-yellow centers in late summer and fall. 'Coombe Fishacre' is a vigorous, low-growing selection ideal for borders, containers, and cottage gardens, typically reaching 12-18 inches in height.
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Example Aster novi-belgii 'Coombe Fishacre' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Aster novi-belgii 'Coombe Fishacre'
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Aster novi-belgii 'Coombe Fishacre' blooms
Around Aug 15≈ 120 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-8, with best performance in zones 5-7
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Get my Aster novi-belgii 'Coombe Fishacre' timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny cotyledons emerge 10-14 days after sowing; first true leaves are narrow and linear
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bright indirect light; thin seedlings to prevent damping off
Vegetative Growth
6-8 weeksPlant develops sturdy stems and increasingly bushy foliage; leaves are narrow, lance-shaped, and dark green
Pinch back growing tips in early summer (before late July) to encourage branching and a fuller, bushier habit; water moderately; apply balanced fertilizer every 3-4 weeks
Budding
2-3 weeksFlower buds begin to form at stem tips in late August; buds are tight clusters of green before opening
Avoid overhead watering; reduce nitrogen fertilizer to encourage flowering; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues
Flowering
6-10 weeks (August-October)Abundant small flowers open, displaying purple-blue petals with yellow centers; blooms occur in succession over several weeks
Deadhead spent flowers to extend blooming period; water at soil level only; monitor for powdery mildew in humid conditions; support stems with stakes if needed in windy areas
Senescence & Dormancy
Variable depending on first frost dateFlowers fade and set seed; foliage begins to deteriorate in late fall; plant enters winter dormancy
Leave seed heads on plant for wildlife benefit or cut back after frost; divide every 2-3 years in spring to rejuvenate; apply mulch for winter protection in zone 4
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; spray with sulfur or neem oil if severe; apply preventive fungicide in humid climates
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Remove and destroy affected leaves; thin crowded plants for better air flow; avoid wetting foliage; apply copper fungicide if needed
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Increase humidity with misting; spray with water to dislodge; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil for serious infestations
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Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering; divide plants if centers become weak; remove affected stems
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Spray with strong water stream; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs
Uses
Edible flowers for decoration
CulinaryAster novi-belgii flowers are non-toxic and can be used as an elegant garnish for desserts, salads, and beverages, offering a delicate, slightly bitter floral note. [source]
Cut flowers and floral arrangements
HouseholdThe abundant, long-lasting blooms are excellent for fresh-cut arrangements, cottage garden bouquets, and September-to-November displays when other flowers are fading. [source]
Pollinator support
WildlifeAsters are an essential late-season nectar and pollen source for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators preparing for winter, providing crucial autumn forage. [source]
Traditional herbal use
MedicinalAster species have been used in traditional medicine as a mild astringent and diuretic, though 'Coombe Fishacre' is primarily ornamental and should not be self-medicated. [source]
Dried flower crafts
CraftThe sturdy flowers dry well and retain color for months, making them ideal for dried arrangements, wreaths, and other long-lasting floral craft projects. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut flowers for arrangements just after they fully open in early morning; they last 7-10 days in a vase. For dried flowers, cut when fully open and hang upside down in a warm, dry location for 2-3 weeks. Deadheading spent blooms throughout the season extends flowering period by several weeks.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 'Coombe Fishacre' is a cultivar developed at the famous Coombe Fishacre garden in Devon, England, a National Trust property known for its exceptional plant breeding and collection.
- 🌱 Asters were named by ancient Greeks for their star-like appearance; 'aster' means 'star' in Greek, and the daisy-like flowers with yellow centers truly resemble stars.
- 🌱 New York aster and its cultivars are among the last perennials to bloom in the garden, often flowering right up until hard frost, earning them the nickname 'fall asters' or 'Michaelmas daisies' in Britain.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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