Edgeworth's Garden

Asters tend to bloom around the autumn equinox which is also the feast of St Michael, for this reason they are often called the Michaelmas daisy.

 
They are sometimes mistaken for a daisy; however, they are members of the sunflower family. 

In ancient times Asters were burned and smoked as a means of warding off negative energy and as medicine to treat headaches, colds, and muscle aches.

 
They are associated with patience, lasting love, good luck and feminine energy.

The name is derived from the Latin word for star.

 
Asters are considered an easy plant to grow, requiring little maintenance.
They can be propagated by dividing the clumps in spring or autumn, they will grow in any garden soil and thrive in full sun. Asters are ideal for growing in mixed borders, with grasses and other prairie-type perennials. They also are a great transition plant, bridging the seasons from summer to autumn.