STAR OF THE MONTH

Symphyotrichum novae-angliae ‘Barr’s Pink’

Call me old fashioned and reactionary if you must, but I’m a bit grumpy with the people who changed the name of this plant from aster – easy to spell, pronunciation a doddle – to symphyotrichum, which sounds like an exotic rash. However, we must all adapt and if it means that our botanical knowledge is improved, then who are we to grumble? Let’s take a (slightly bowdlerised) leaf from Shakespeare’s book and remember that an aster by any other name will still be a gorgeous addition to the late-summer border.

Care From the New England group, so mildew-free as long as it’s kept healthy and well watered. Full sun or part shade. Height x Spread 1.2m x 60cm