Masses of richly coloured, crimson-magenta, silk-like petals centred around a raised golden boss of stamens appear, as clusters of flowers, from late summer into early autumn. 'Crimson Brocade' is an upright, bushy, deciduous perennial with narrow lance-shaped, dark green leaves and looks stunning planted with Dahlia 'Ambition' or Dahlia 'Karma Pink Corona'.
How to care for Symphyotrichum novi-belgii Crimson Brocade:
When planting 'Crimson Brocade' incorporate some well-rotted compost or manure into the planting hole. Stake with bamboo canes (or supports made from other plant materials - e.g. hazel) in early spring. Water regularly during dry spells and deadhead 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. Once established, lift and divide clumps every 2-4 years.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
1.2m
Eventual spread:
0.5m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Fast-growing
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or peat-free general purpose compost
-
This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.