Asters are a beloved genus of perennial flowering plants that are renowned for their vibrant, daisy-like blooms and important role in supporting late-season pollinators. Native to North America and Eurasia, asters are a diverse group, comprising hundreds of species and cultivars that vary greatly in their growth habits, flower colors, and bloom times.

Common garden asters, such as New England aster (Aster novae-angliae) and Smooth aster (Aster laevis), typically feature large, showy flower heads composed of delicate, radiating ray petals surrounding a central disk. These blooms range in hue from classic purple and lavender to pink, white, and even deep red, adding pops of color to landscapes in late summer and fall. Asters' adaptability to a variety of soil types and growing conditions, from full sun to partial shade, make them versatile selections for borders, meadows, and naturalized areas.

Beyond their ornamental appeal, asters are a vital food source for a wide range of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and moths, providing a crucial nectar-rich floral display when many other plants have finished blooming for the season. This ecological value, combined with asters' ease of care and long-lasting flowers, solidifies their status as beloved, must-have perennials for any garden.