The large and showy New England ASTER'S rich color highlights the end of the gardening season at my place. As a late season bloomer it provides a critical Autumnal nectar source for pollinators, especially Monarchs Butterflies as they stock up for their fall migration to Mexico. It is also very popular in my gardens w/ the unusual Orange-Banded Bumble Bee.

Known also as 'Starworts' or 'Michaelmas Daisies', the name 'ASTER' is derived from the Greek word meaning 'Star' and refers to it's star shaped heads. ASTERS have been used for more than a beautiful Autumnal flower bed for eons. The root has been used for centuries in Chinese medicines and the flower and leaves are also reported to provide health benefits for treating headaches, colds and muscle aches. Interestingly, ASTERS were burned and smoked in ancient times as a means of warding off negative energy.

The image seen here shows a single multi-stalked ASTER in my gardens. Taken on a crystal clear Autumnal afternoon I loved the combination of the single blossoming flower backed up by all the flowers yet to open. This gorgeous bed of ASTERS provides the most lovely color at my place.....long after I've cut back most of the other perennials in my gardens.