Companions

Aster Associates:

Raydon's Favorite aster is a low maintenance plant with a long, dazzling, bloom period. I like to combine it with similar plants to create a low maintenance area that is constantly changing and consistently beautiful. Just about any full sun, open area, drought-tolerant perennial or annual makes a good compliment.

As always, bulbs and ephemerals dominate in Spring. Choose early bloomers that like it hot and dry during their dormant phase. Crocus ancyrensis, Tulipa tarda, Narcissus "Quail", Allium "Gladiator", wild columbine (Aquilegia canadensis), and shooting star (Dodecatheon meadia) are some of my specific favorites, but most Spring bulbs will work. If rabbits or rodents are a problem, try bulbocodiums, jonquils, alliums, and prairie plants.

In my meadow area false indigo, butterfly weed, balloon flower, meadow rue, and purple prairie clover carry the section through the Summer. In Autumn goldenrods, little bluestem, and other asters prepare the way for Raydon's Favorite aster to take center stage in late Autumn. The grasses, especially little bluestem, add height and verticality, which is an appealing contrast to Raydon's Favorite aster's mounded and spreading shape.

Autumn crocus (Crocus speciousus) and Colchicum "Waterlily" give ground level purple compliments. But they must be planted in large numbers and the ground around them free of other plants for this to be effective. (In my garden this scheme only worked two seasons before Raydon's Favorite aster spread over the colchicum and completely obscured them.)

Tall shrubs and trees are not good companions. However smaller shrubs like St. John�fs wort, leadplant, or some serviceberries work well and add structure.

For dazzling displays combine the purple blossoms of Raydons Favorite aster with the brilliant yellows of Helianthus angustifolius hybrids. This combination of compact, profusely blooming aster and compact, profusely blooming sunflower is sure to inspire envy (not evil coveting, but simply "Wow, I wish I had that" jealousy) in your gardening friends. Plant this combination in a showcase area where they will bring bright colors to your yard, green-eyed monsters to your neighbors, and satisfied smiles to you.