This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: full sun
• Soil: well-drained, moderately fertile soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: June to September
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  Masses of pale, mauve-blue Aster daisies, each up to 5cm across, appear on these compact and mildew-resistant aster like plants. Plant them in clumps or more informal drifts throughout the front of the border and they will give you a good couple of months of colour. Team them with pinks or softer shades of purple as well as silver.
  
  
• Garden care: Stake with bamboo canes or brushwood in early spring. Water regularly during dry spells and deadhead regularly to prolong flowering. After flowering cut the flowered stems to the ground and apply a generous mulch of well-rotted garden compost or horse manure around the base of the plant.