Finding the best aster plants means balancing vibrant color, hardiness, and ease of care. The Lilac Blue Aster stands out for its striking purple-blue flowers and long-lasting blooms, making it the top overall choice. The New England Aster ‘Kickin Purple’ offers impressive size and resilience, ideal for those seeking a robust perennial. However, buyers often wrestle with tradeoffs between size, bloom color, and maintenance needs. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of these top options to help you choose the best aster for your garden.
Get garden gear delivered free — and shop member deals
- Fast, free delivery on millions of items
- Access to Prime Big Deal Days deals on October 6–7
- Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked asters excel in bloom vibrancy and longevity, ensuring a colorful fall display.
- Size and growth habit are key: some asters are compact and ideal for containers, while others are large and suited for borders.
- Native and perennial varieties tend to be more resilient and easier to care for over multiple seasons.
- Price and availability vary widely; some high-end options offer premium blooms but at a higher cost.
- Care requirements differ; choosing a low-maintenance aster benefits gardeners with limited time for upkeep.
| Lilac Blue Aster Live Plant, Aster Plant 3-5 Inch Tall, Purple Blue Flower |  | Best for Colorful Borders and Containers | Plant Height: 3-5 inches | Bloom Color: Lilac-blue to purple | Sunlight: Full sun | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Aster – Purple Blooms Live Perennial in 2 Qt Pot |  | Best for Pollinator Gardens and Fall Color | Bloom Color: Purple | Mature Height: 12-18 inches | Mature Spread: 15-20 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| New England Aster ‘Kickin Purple’, 2-Gallon Pot |  | Best for Butterfly Gardens and Lasting Garden Impact | Plant Type: Perennial | Growth Rate: Slow to moderate | Sunlight: Full sun, part shade, full shade | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Set of 2 Lilac Blue Aster Starter Plants, Live Aster Plant 3-5″ Tall |  | Best for Budget-Friendly, Early Planting | Quantity: 2 plants | Height at listing: 3-5 inches | Sunlight Exposure: Full sun | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Stokes’ Aster ‘Honeysong Purple’, 1-Gallon Pot |  | Best for Drought Tolerance and Shade Versatility | Scientific Name: Stokesia laevis ‘Honeysong Purple’ | Size: 1-Gallon Pot | Sunlight: Full sun, part shade, full shade | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Votaniki Aster Novae Angliae ‘Grape Crush’ (New England Aster) #1 Size Root – Purple Fall Blooming Perennial, 1 Pack |  | Best Compact and Low-Maintenance Aster | Plant Type: Perennial (New England Aster) | Variety: ‘Grape Crush’ | Bloom Color: Purple | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 3 Live New England Aster Plants (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae) – Native Perennial Wildflowers in 4″ Pots |  | Best for Instant Impact and Fast Establishment | Quantity: 3 live plants | Pot Size: 4 inches | Height on Arrival: 4-8 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Lilac Blue Aster Live Plant, 3-5 Inches Tall |  | Best for Fragrant and Vibrant Garden Accents | Size: 3-5 inches tall | Type: Perennial | Color: Lilac blue to purple | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| aster plant | Bloom Color | Plant Type |
|---|---|---|
| Lilac Blue Aster Live Plant | Lilac-blue to purple | Perennial |
| Aster | Purple | — |
| New England Aster ‘Kickin Purp | — | Perennial |
| Set of 2 Lilac Blue Aster Star | — | Perennial |
| Stokes’ Aster ‘Honeysong Purpl | — | — |
| Votaniki Aster Novae Angliae ‘ | Purple | Perennial (New England Aster) |
| 3 Live New England Aster Plant | Purple | — |
| Lilac Blue Aster Live Plant | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Lilac Blue Aster Live Plant, Aster Plant 3-5 Inch Tall, Purple Blue Flower
This Lilac Blue Aster stands out for its vibrant purple-blue blooms that brighten flower beds and containers. Compared with larger perennials like the New England Aster ‘Kickin Purple’, this variety offers a more compact size, making it ideal for smaller garden spaces or mixed containers. Its performance in well-draining soil and full sun ensures reliable seasonal flowering, but it requires consistent watering and may need protection in colder zones. While not as tall or dramatic as some perennials, its soft, fragrant flowers provide a gentle, colorful addition to sunny borders. This pick is perfect for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, versatile plant that enhances seasonal color without overwhelming a garden.
Pros:- Vibrant, fragrant lilac-blue to purple blooms
- Perennial that returns year after year
- Suitable for borders, containers, and flower beds
Cons:- Requires regular watering during active growth
- Limited to USDA zones 5-9, not ideal for colder regions
Best for: Gardeners with limited space who want a reliable, colorful perennial for borders or containers
Not ideal for: Large landscape designers seeking tall, dramatic focal plants or colder climate gardeners in zones below 5
- Plant Height:3-5 inches
- Bloom Color:Lilac-blue to purple
- Sunlight:Full sun
- Soil Type:Well-draining
- Zone:USDA 5-9
- Plant Type:Perennial
Our verdict“A charming, versatile choice for gardeners wanting reliable seasonal color in sunny, well-drained spots.”
Aster – Purple Blooms Live Perennial in 2 Qt Pot
This Purple Aster excels at attracting pollinators with its star-shaped blooms, making it an excellent choice for wildlife-friendly gardens. Compared with the New England Aster ‘Kickin Purple’, it is more compact and ships in a convenient 2-quart pot, ready for immediate planting. Its fall flowering season adds a burst of color just when many plants fade, but it demands full sun and regular watering at the base to thrive. Its low-maintenance nature makes it suitable for gardeners wanting to support pollinators without extensive fuss. This perennial is less suited for shaded gardens or those seeking a taller, more dramatic display, but it’s ideal for adding late-season vibrancy with ecological benefits.
Pros:- Pollinator-friendly star-shaped blooms
- Ships live, ready to plant
- Adds vibrant fall color
Cons:- Requires full sun for best results
- Needs regular watering to maintain health
Best for: Gardeners looking to enhance pollinator habitats with a reliable fall bloomer
Not ideal for: Shade gardeners or those preferring tall, showy asters for focal points
- Bloom Color:Purple
- Mature Height:12-18 inches
- Mature Spread:15-20 inches
- Pot Size:2 Qt
- Sun Exposure:Full sun
- Soil Preference:Well-drained loamy
Our verdict“Ideal for ecological gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, pollinator-attracting perennial for sunny fall gardens.”
New England Aster ‘Kickin Purple’, 2-Gallon Pot
The New England Aster ‘Kickin Purple’ offers striking, long-lasting blooms that attract butterflies and add texture to any garden bed. Compared with smaller or less versatile asters like the Purple Aster, this variety’s larger 2-gallon size allows for more immediate impact and better establishment. Its ability to thrive in full sun, part shade, or full shade makes it highly adaptable, although its slow to moderate growth rate means patience is needed. It excels in traditional and contemporary landscapes but may require specific soil conditions for optimal growth. This perennial is perfect for gardeners who want a reliable, butterfly-friendly plant that offers lasting visual interest, though it’s less suitable for those seeking quick results or very compact plantings.
Pros:- Attracts butterflies and pollinators
- Versatile sunlight requirements
- Adds lasting visual appeal
Cons:- Growth may be slow initially
- Requires specific soil for best performance
Best for: Gardeners wanting a versatile, butterfly-attracting perennial with substantial presence
Not ideal for: Immediate-impact landscapers or those with very poor soil conditions
- Plant Type:Perennial
- Growth Rate:Slow to moderate
- Sunlight:Full sun, part shade, full shade
- Uses:Garden beds, borders
- Container Size:2 Gallon
Our verdict“A dependable choice for those seeking a butterfly magnet that enhances perennial borders with lasting beauty.”
Set of 2 Lilac Blue Aster Starter Plants, Live Aster Plant 3-5″ Tall
This set of two Lilac Blue Aster starter plants offers an affordable way to introduce seasonal color early in the garden. While they arrive as small 3-5 inch plants, they grow reliably into the soft, fragrant blooms valued in cottage or perennial borders. Compared with more mature plants like the New England Aster ‘Kickin Purple’, these starters require patience but reward gardeners with a perennial that returns season after season. Their compact size makes them suitable for filling gaps in borders or containers, but they need full sun and well-draining soil to flourish. They are an excellent choice for gardeners willing to wait for full bloom, especially those on a budget or starting a new garden bed.
Pros:- Affordable, comes as a set of two
- Perennial that returns annually
- Fragrant, colorful blooms
Cons:- Small initial size requires patience
- Needs full sun and well-drained soil
Best for: Budget-conscious gardeners seeking a reliable perennial starter for borders or containers
Not ideal for: Those needing instant impact or in climates with very short growing seasons
- Quantity:2 plants
- Height at listing:3-5 inches
- Sunlight Exposure:Full sun
- Plant Type:Perennial
- Return Policy:30-Day Guarantee
Our verdict“A cost-effective, reliable starter for gardeners willing to nurture young plants into full bloom.”
Stokes’ Aster ‘Honeysong Purple’, 1-Gallon Pot
The Stokes’ Aster ‘Honeysong Purple’ offers a unique combination of drought tolerance and adaptability to shade, making it valuable for low-water or shaded garden spots. Compared with the more sun-dependent New England Aster ‘Kickin Purple’, this plant thrives with less water once established and can tolerate partial to full shade, expanding its usefulness in diverse garden conditions. Its rabbit resistance adds to its low-maintenance appeal, though it may require patience to fully establish and its mature size isn’t clearly specified. This aster is especially suited for gardeners seeking a resilient, low-input perennial that provides lasting color and texture, but it may not be the best choice for those wanting quick flowering or very precise size control.
Pros:- Attracts butterflies and is rabbit resistant
- Drought tolerant once established
- Versatile for full sun to full shade
Cons:- May need patience to establish fully
- Limited information on mature size
Best for: Drought-prone or shaded garden areas needing drought-tolerant, butterfly-friendly plants
Not ideal for: Gardens requiring immediate impact or gardeners seeking tall or fast-growing asters
- Scientific Name:Stokesia laevis ‘Honeysong Purple’
- Size:1-Gallon Pot
- Sunlight:Full sun, part shade, full shade
- Resistant to:Rabbits
- Tolerance:Drought
Our verdict“An excellent choice for low-water, shaded gardens that want lasting beauty with minimal fuss.”
Votaniki Aster Novae Angliae ‘Grape Crush’ (New England Aster) #1 Size Root – Purple Fall Blooming Perennial, 1 Pack
This choice stands out for gardeners seeking a manageable, low-maintenance perennial that attracts pollinators late in the season. Compared with the live plants in 4-inch pots, the bare root ‘Grape Crush’ offers a more cost-effective option for establishing a garden, though it requires full sun and well-drained soil to flourish. Its compact size makes it perfect for borders, containers, or small gardens, and its natural resistance to deer and rabbits reduces worries about browsing. However, as it’s sold as a bare root, it may take a season for blooms to appear, requiring patience and proper planting. This makes it ideal for those who want reliable pollinator support without high initial investment, but less so for impatient gardeners or shaded garden spaces.Pros:- Attracts butterflies, bees, and pollinators with late-season nectar
- Resistant to deer and rabbits, reducing garden damage
- Compact size suits small gardens, borders, and containers
- Low-maintenance once established
Cons:- Requires full sun and well-drained soil to thrive
- Blooming may be delayed, as it’s sold as a bare root
Best for: Gardeners with limited space who want a resilient, easy-to-grow perennial for borders or containers.
Not ideal for: Those seeking immediate color or planting in shaded areas, as it needs full sun and time to establish.
- Plant Type:Perennial (New England Aster)
- Variety:‘Grape Crush’
- Bloom Color:Purple
- Bloom Season:Fall
- Mature Height:26-30 inches
- Mature Spread:40-44 inches
- Root Size:#1
- Sun Exposure:Full sun
- Soil Needs:Well-drained
Our verdict“This is a smart choice for gardeners prioritizing low-maintenance, pollinator-friendly plants in small or border gardens.”
3 Live New England Aster Plants (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae) – Native Perennial Wildflowers in 4″ Pots
This set of three live plants is perfect for gardeners who want to skip the waiting game that comes with bare roots, unlike the Votaniki Grape Crush. Being already established at 4-8 inches tall, they can be transplanted immediately, providing instant color and pollinator benefits. Compared to the Lilac Blue Aster, these plants grow taller—up to four feet—and bloom in purple from late summer to fall, making them a striking late-season feature. Their strong root systems ensure quick establishment and resilience, especially in Zones 4-8. The tradeoff is that they require regular watering initially and may be more expensive upfront than bare root options. This makes them best suited for gardeners who want quick results and reliable late-season blooms, but less so for those with limited space or in shaded areas.Pros:- No germination delay—plants arrive ready to grow
- Provides vibrant purple blooms late in the season
- Deer-resistant and drought-tolerant once established
- Strong root systems promote rapid establishment
Cons:- Higher initial cost compared to bare root options
- Requires regular watering during early growth stages
- Not suitable for shaded gardens or low-light conditions
Best for: Gardeners seeking immediate impact and fast establishment in full sun with little fuss.
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious gardeners or those with shaded gardens, as potted plants cost more and prefer full sun.
- Quantity:3 live plants
- Pot Size:4 inches
- Height on Arrival:4-8 inches
- Mature Height:Up to 4 feet
- Bloom Color:Purple
- Blooming Period:Late summer to fall
- USDA Hardiness Zones:4-8
- Sunlight Exposure:Full sun
- Soil Type:All
Our verdict“Ideal for gardeners who want quick, established plants with vibrant fall blooms and pollinator appeal.”
Lilac Blue Aster Live Plant, 3-5 Inches Tall
This petite live plant is perfect for gardeners who want to add a splash of color and fragrance to smaller spaces or containers. Unlike the larger, late-season options, the Lilac Blue Aster blooms early with vibrant lilac-blue to purple flowers, attracting pollinators and adding seasonal charm. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy fragrant plants and want a manageable size for windowsills, patio containers, or front borders. However, its small size means it may need more frequent watering and might not provide the long-lasting impact of larger asters. It’s less suitable for gardeners seeking dramatic, tall displays or for shaded gardens. This plant excels in sunny, well-drained spots where a burst of color can be easily appreciated up close.Pros:- Vibrant and fragrant blooms enhance garden scent and visual appeal
- Compact size suits containers and small beds
- Attracts bees, butterflies, and pollinators
- Easy to incorporate into various garden styles
Cons:- Requires regular watering during early growth
- Limited to outdoor use in suitable climates
- Small size may mean less impact in large borders
Best for: Gardeners looking for a fragrant, manageable perennial to brighten small spaces or containers.
Not ideal for: Large-scale planting or shaded gardens, as it prefers full sun and may need frequent watering initially.
- Size:3-5 inches tall
- Type:Perennial
- Color:Lilac blue to purple
- Planting conditions:Full sun, well-draining soil
Our verdict“This aster is perfect for gardeners wanting a fragrant, colorful accent in small or container gardens with full sun.”
How We Picked
I evaluated each aster plant based on several key factors: bloom quality and duration, plant size and growth habit, hardiness zones, ease of care, and overall value. I also considered customer reviews and the reputation of the nursery or grower to ensure reliability. Plants that offered vibrant, long-lasting flowers with minimal fuss ranked higher, while those with limited bloom time or complex maintenance were rated lower. This approach prioritizes options that deliver the best visual impact and ease of growth for a variety of garden settings, which shaped the overall ranking in this list.| aster plant | Bloom Color | Plant Type |
|---|---|---|
| Lilac Blue Aster Live Plant | Lilac-blue to purple | Perennial |
| Aster | Purple | — |
| New England Aster ‘Kickin Purp | — | Perennial |
| Set of 2 Lilac Blue Aster Star | — | Perennial |
| Stokes’ Aster ‘Honeysong Purpl | — | — |
| Votaniki Aster Novae Angliae ‘ | Purple | Perennial (New England Aster) |
| 3 Live New England Aster Plant | Purple | — |
| Lilac Blue Aster Live Plant | — | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Aster Plants
Choosing the best aster plant involves considering several factors that influence performance, appearance, and long-term care. Beyond just selecting the prettiest flower, understanding growth habits, climate needs, and maintenance can help prevent disappointment and ensure your garden thrives. Here are key considerations to guide your decision-making process.Size and Growth Habit
Consider how much space you have available. Compact asters are perfect for containers or small beds, while larger varieties work well as border plants or focal points. Think about whether you prefer a bushy, spreading plant or a tall, upright form. Matching the plant’s size with your garden layout avoids overcrowding and ensures healthy growth.
Bloom Color and Season
Most asters bloom in shades of purple, blue, or white, but some offer unique hues like pink or violet. The timing of bloom is also crucial; most asters flower in late summer to fall, but check the specific variety’s peak bloom period. Choosing a variety that aligns with your garden’s color scheme and bloom schedule maximizes visual impact.
Hardiness and Climate Compatibility
Not all asters thrive in every climate zone. Review your local USDA hardiness zone and select varieties rated for your area. Native species tend to adapt better and require less fuss, especially in colder climates. Planting a hardy aster reduces the risk of disease and ensures reliable blooms year after year.
Maintenance and Care Needs
Some asters demand regular deadheading and pruning to prolong flowering, while others are more forgiving and low-maintenance. Consider your time availability—if you prefer a fuss-free plant, opt for varieties known for their resilience and minimal care requirements. Proper watering, soil, and light conditions also influence overall health and bloom quality.
Price and Availability
Prices for asters vary based on size, rarity, and supplier. While premium varieties may offer exceptional blooms or unique colors, they come at a higher cost. Conversely, more common types provide good value but might lack some of the standout features of specialty plants. Look for reputable nurseries to ensure quality and healthy delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are asters suitable for container planting?
Yes, many asters, especially smaller or dwarf varieties, adapt well to containers. Choosing a compact variety allows for vibrant blooms without taking up too much space. Ensure the container has good drainage and choose a soil mix that retains moisture but drains well. Regular watering and deadheading will keep potted asters looking their best throughout the season.
How do I care for asters after flowering?
After asters bloom, removing spent flowers through deadheading encourages continued flowering and prevents seed production. In colder climates, cutting back the plant helps prepare it for winter and promotes healthy growth in the spring. Mulching around the base can protect roots from freezing and retain soil moisture during dry spells.
Can asters grow in full shade?
Most asters prefer full sun to produce their best blooms, though some tolerate light shade. In shaded conditions, flowering may be reduced, and plants might become leggy or less vigorous. For vibrant, long-lasting flowers, choose varieties that are known for shade tolerance or plant them in sunnier spots whenever possible.
What common pests or diseases affect asters?
Asters can be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and aphids. Good air circulation, proper spacing, and avoiding overhead watering help prevent fungal issues. Regular inspection and early treatment with organic fungicides or insecticidal soap can keep plants healthy and prevent outbreaks from damaging blooms or foliage.
When is the best time to plant asters?
The optimal planting time depends on your climate. In most regions, planting in early spring after the last frost allows asters to establish before blooming in late summer or fall. For fall-blooming varieties, starting with nursery-grown plants or well-established seedlings in early spring offers the best results. Proper soil preparation and mulching boost root development and flowering performance.
Conclusion
For gardeners seeking the best overall performer, the Lilac Blue Aster offers striking color and reliable blooms with minimal fuss. Those on a budget or wanting a versatile perennial may prefer the Set of 2 Lilac Blue Aster Starter Plants, which provides good value and ease of planting. Beginners should consider low-maintenance, hardy varieties like the New England Aster ‘Kickin Purple’. If you’re after a premium, show-stopping display, the Votaniki Aster Novae Angliae ‘Grape Crush’ delivers exceptional color and size. Finally, for specific needs like container gardening or shade tolerance, select a variety that matches your environment and care level, ensuring your garden bursts with asters year after year.
Fall Picks
fall essentials
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
