Aster ×frikartii, commonly known as Frikart’s aster, is a perennial herb that is an artificial hybrid resulting from the cross between the European Michaelmas daisy, Aster amellus, and Thomson’s aster, Aster thomsonii. This hybrid was created by Swiss plant breeder Carl Ludwig Frikart. Frikart’s aster typically grows to a height of 24-36 inches (60-90 cm) with a similar spread, and it is characterized by its long blooming period from midsummer to fall. The plant forms clumps of lance-shaped, medium green leaves and bears large, lavender-blue flowers with yellow centers that are highly attractive to pollinators.

Frikart’s aster is celebrated for its extended flowering season and showy, daisy-like flowers that add a splash of color to the late summer and autumn garden. It is an excellent choice for border plantings, cottage gardens, and pollinator-friendly landscapes. The cultivars ’Mönch’ and ’Wunder von Stäfa’ have gained the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit, indicating their exceptional performance in gardens. These cultivars are particularly noted for their robust growth and larger, more vibrant flowers. Frikart’s aster thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soil. It is generally easy to maintain but may require staking in very rich soils or partial shade to prevent flopping. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage a longer blooming period. While generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0