Aster novi-belgii 'Peter III Blue'
Aster novi belgii 'Peter III Blue' is a late season perennial that produces masses of violet blue daisy like flowers above compact green foliage. Its upright habit and abundant blooms provide valuable late season color while supporting pollinators at a time when many other garden plants have finished flowering.
Height & Spread: 12 - 18 in x 12 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Late summer to fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Average to well drained soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture during periods of heat
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This cultivar is a garden selection of New York aster, a species native to eastern North America. 'Peter III Blue' was selected for its compact habit and reliable late season floral display while maintaining the ecological value of the native species.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Provides an important late season nectar source for Monarchs, Painted Ladies, and other butterflies preparing for migration or winter survival.
Bees
- Attracts native bees, bumblebees, and honeybees which forage among the numerous small flowers for nectar and pollen.
Birds
- Produces seeds that can provide seasonal food for songbirds after flowering finishes.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 12 - 18 in apart to allow plants to form a full flowering mass while maintaining good air circulation.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for borders, cottage gardens, pollinator plantings, and mixed perennial beds where its late season blue flowers extend garden interest.
Companion Plants
- Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' (Black Eyed Susan) - Adds warm golden blooms that create contrast with the cool blue flowers.
- Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Provides fine textured grass foliage and seasonal structure alongside the aster.
- Solidago rugosa 'Fireworks' (Goldenrod) - Extends the late season display with complementary golden flowers and strong pollinator value.
- Perovskia atriplicifolia (Russian Sage) - Adds airy lavender blue flower spikes that blend well with the soft tones of the aster.
- Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' (Purple Coneflower) - Provides upright summer blooms that transition naturally into the aster’s fall flowering period.