Aster amellus, commonly known as European Michaelmas daisy, is a perennial herb that is native to a variety of habitats including rocky alpine meadows, subalpine grasslands, and open, calcareous areas across Europe and extending into Turkey, the Caucasus, Siberia, Uttarakhand, and Kazakhstan. It typically grows to a height of 8-20 inches with erect, branched stems and lance-shaped, dark green leaves. The plant is noted for its daisy-like, lilac flowers with yellow centers that bloom from July to October, providing a late-season nectar source for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

European Michaelmas daisy is appreciated for its vibrant late summer and autumn blooms, which add color to gardens when many other plants have finished flowering. It is often used in border plantings, rock gardens, and as part of pollinator-friendly garden designs. This species thrives in well-drained, chalky or limestone-rich soils and prefers full sun to part shade. While generally low-maintenance, it may require division every few years to maintain vigor. Gardeners should be aware that, although not common, powdery mildew and rust can affect the plant.CC BY-SA 4.0