Aster Tonga purple

Common Name:
Michaelmas Daisy 'Tonga'

Description:
Symphyotrichum novi-belgii 'Tonga', formerly known as Aster dumosus 'Tonga', is a compact, clump-forming perennial that produces a profusion of vibrant purple, daisy-like flowers with bright yellow centres. Blooming from late summer through autumn, it adds a splash of colour to gardens when many other plants are fading. Its neat, dome-shaped habit and slender green foliage make it ideal for borders, containers, and cottage gardens. In Melbourne's temperate climate, 'Tonga' thrives in moist, well-drained soils and performs best in full sun to partial shade. Regular deadheading encourages prolonged blooming, and cutting back the stems in late autumn prepares the plant for vigorous growth in the following season. Its resilience and low maintenance requirements make it a valuable addition to any garden seeking late-season interest.

Form:

• Shrub - Small

Mature Size:

• Height: 30–40 cm

• Width: 30–40 cm

Aspect:

• Full Sun

• Part Shade

Flowering:

• Flowers in Late Summer

• Flowers in Autumn

Flower Colour:

• Purple with Yellow Centres

Key Attributes:

• Suitable for Pots

• Bee Attracting

• Butterfly Attracting

• Perennial

• Suitable for Cut Flowers

• Low Maintenance

• Drought Tolerant (once established)

• Coastal Tolerant

• Deer Resistant

Toxicity:
Not known to be toxic to humans or pets. However, ingestion in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.

Companion Plants:

• Sedum (Sedum spp.)

• Echinacea (Echinacea spp.)

• Rudbeckia (Rudbeckia spp.)

• Salvia (Salvia spp.)

• Coreopsis (Coreopsis spp.)