Aster is a genus of perennial flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, which encompasses around 170 species, all but one of which are restricted to Eurasia). The name Aster comes from the Ancient Greek word ἀστήρ (astḗr), meaning "star", referring to the shape of the flower head). Asters are notable for their starburst arrangement of bright petals, which most often surround a yellow center. They are daisy-like flowers that fill the late-season landscape with masses of blue, pink, purple, and white, and are the perfect bridge between summer and fall. Some species of Aster are used as food plants by the larvae of a number of Lepidoptera species).

Here are some additional facts about Aster:

• Asters are cold-hardy perennials that bloom from late summer through fall.
• Most asters are herbaceous perennials, meaning they will die back to the ground in winter.
• Asters can grow in all hardiness zones).
• Asters can be propagated by collecting seeds or rooting stem cuttings, but the easiest and recommended way is propagation by division.
• Asters are transitional flowers that bloom from summer to fall.
• There are about 250 species of asters native to North America, Europe, and Asia.
• Asters are used in meadows, pollinator gardens, and abandoned areas for their use by native bees, butterflies, and pollinators.
• Asters can be grown in containers as well.
• Asters are related to daisies, marigolds, chrysanthemums, and sunflowers.