This low growing evergreen, native to the mountain of Europe is just 6 inches high, covered with little, daisy-like flowers in white, purple, blue, and pink. Provides a real focal point in a border or rock garden, year after year.

25 seeds

PLANTING

Aster alpinus

Perennial, zones 3-7

Germination: 10-14 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 70-75F

Seed Planting Depth: Sow deep, cold treating aids germination

Starting Indoors: Start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Provide 70-75F soil temperatures until germination. Transplant after the last frost, 12 apart

Sowing Outdoors: Direct sow mid-spring or early fall, sow 3-5 seeds every 12

Growth Habit:Spreading mass

Height and Width: 6-8 x 12-15″

Spacing: 12″ apart

Light Needs: Full sun

Soil Needs: Fertile, well-drained

Approximate days to flower from seed: 110-120 days

Uses: Flower beds, rock gardens, borders, tolerates drought, attracts beneficials

Care: Water seedlings regularly until established. Amend soil with compost before transplanting. Remove faded flowers to encourage more blooms. Short-lived where summers are hot.

Image credited to Wikipedia