Download November 2026 HortusScope
‘Tis seed-gathering time as the garden prepares to rest for the cold weather ahead. But look, a glowing aster is just coming into bloom, the last of the bloomers for the season. It’s Tatarian aster (Aster tataricus), not a native plant but a powerful lure for bumblebees, wasps, and skippers.
On a cool morning you can spot numerous bumblers napping among the flowers. As the day warms, myriad flying creatures light on the blossoms, creating a lively show. Beware though, Tatarian aster spreads to form a solid mat, but its vibrant blue flowers with golden centers are worth it to me for this fine end-of-season display.
