Aster puniceus or Symphyotrichum puniceum 

Commonly known as Purple Stemmed Aster, this sturdy, clump forming perennial features stiff, purplish-red stems. Clusters of starry blooms in shades of lavender, purple or violet arrive from late summer to fall (September - October) and is one of the latest asters to bloom. Plants are similar to Aster novae-angliae, but this variety has slightly smaller flowers and glossier foliage.

Plant in full sun to part shade with moist to wet soil. Blooms are daisy-like and very attractive to pollinators, while deer tend to leave them alone. This aster is a host for caterpillars of the Silvery Checkerspot Butterfly, Pearl Crescent Butterfly and several different moths.

An excellent choice for a prairie, rain, native and woodland gardens. Pair with Liatris, Asclepias, Rudbeckia and Solidago as garden companions.

Native to eastern and central North America

Arrives to you in a quart-sized pot