Symphyotrichum 'Little Carlow' (_cordifolium_ hybrid)

Clouds of small, vivid violet-blue daisies with bright yellow centres are carried on stout stems above narrow, mid-green foliage. ‘Little Carlow’ is widely admired not only for the sheer quantity of flowers it produces, but also for the striking intensity of those blue flowerheads — a colour that bees and butterflies find quite irresistible as the season turns.

The blooms really sing out of an autumn border, combining beautifully with yellows such as Rudbeckia, echoing the warm tones of their own centres. For a more naturalistic effect, plant in gentle drifts with grasses and other daisies such as Echinacea and Helenium for a prairie-style planting that pollinators will love. After flowering, stems can be cut back or left until spring for additional winter interest.

This easy-to-grow perennial thrives in fairly fertile, moisture-retentive soil in part shade, but will tolerate full sun with a little less moisture — avoid very free-draining conditions.

Height × Spread: 100cm × 60cm