Pink in the aster family
Pink asters range from pale blush to bright rose. Michaelmas daisy cultivars, Symphyotrichum novae-angliae asters and China asters all include pink forms. The ray petals are narrow and fringe a yellow centre, giving the starry look that gave the flower its name.
What pink asters say
The aster traditionally stands for love and patience, and the pink shade softens that to tenderness and affection. A bunch of pink asters is a gentle way to mark a friendship or a thank-you.
Where pink asters fit
- Perennial pink asters flower from March to May in Australia.
- They suit sunny borders, cottage gardens and large pots.
- Divide clumps every two or three years to keep them flowering well.
- Bees and hoverflies visit the open flowers.
Pink asters in a vase
Choose stems when about a third of the flowers are open. Aster stems drink well if recut and placed in clean water. A little flower food helps, and ten days is a good result in a cool room.
Pink asters look attractive with silver foliage, white daisies and deep purple. In the garden, pair them with ornamental grasses that colour up in autumn.
China asters are usually sown in spring, September to October, and flower through the summer. Sowing again every few weeks gives you cut flowers over a longer period.
Aster around animals
Pet-safety lists from the ASPCA mark aster as non-toxic for dogs, cats and horses.
