New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)  is a native perennial which grows from 2½ to 6 feet tall with individually stalked flower heads that have bright pink to purple, petal-like ray flowers surrounding a central yellow disk. It grows in moist soil with partial shade. Bees, butterflies, flies, beetles, moths, and hummingbirds are drawn to its nectar and pollen. 

New England aster is host plant for the pearl crescent (Phyciodes tharos) caterpillars. Its nectar is attractive to Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, moths, butterflies, flies, beetles, and bees, including specialized bees.. Songbirds and small mammals eat the seeds.