Aster 'Purple Dome'

Aster novae-angliae 'Purple Dome': A Jewel-Toned Cushion for Autumn

Compact, richly coloured, and perfectly shaped, Aster 'Purple Dome' forms a dense, rounded mound smothered in vivid purple blooms from early to mid-fall. Each daisy-like flower features a golden centre, creating a glowing contrast against the deep green foliage. Unlike taller New England asters, this selection stays low and tight, making it ideal for front-of-border placements and smaller garden spaces. Its blooms are a magnet for late-season pollinators, offering essential nectar as the season winds down.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 40–50 cm
• Spread: 60–75 cm, forming a compact, dome-like mound
• Flower Colour: Rich purple with golden centres
• Flowering Period: Early to mid-fall
• Foliage: Dark green, lance-shaped leaves; mildew-resistant
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, average to moist soil; tolerates clay

Uses and Benefits: Aster 'Purple Dome' brings tidy structure and bold colour to fall borders, pollinator gardens, and naturalistic designs. Its low profile makes it perfect for edging paths or filling space beneath taller companions, while its heavy flower production ensures a lively display that supports bees and butterflies. Deer-resistant and low maintenance, it’s a dependable choice for consistent autumn interest.

Companion Plants: Pair with the compact golden sprays of Solidago 'Golden Baby', the burgundy-tinged foliage and upright form of Panicum 'Shenandoah', and the warm, fleshy blooms of Sedum 'Autumn Joy' for a dynamic and textural planting that glows through fall.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun with well-drained soil. Water regularly during establishment; drought-tolerant once mature. No pinching is needed—its natural form remains compact. Cut back after flowering or leave stems standing into winter for wildlife interest. Divide every few years in early spring to maintain vigour and form.

History: Introduced by Dr. Richard Lighty of the Mt. Cuba Center, 'Purple Dome' is a dwarf selection of the native Aster novae-angliae bred for its compact size, dense bloom set, and excellent mildew resistance—an enduring favourite in fall perennial plantings.

Final Thoughts: Neat, vivid, and pollinator-friendly, Aster 'Purple Dome' brings rich colour and crisp form to the autumn garden—proof that big impact can come in a small, perfectly rounded package.