Aster Royal Ruby
Aster novi-belgii Royal Ruby is a richly coloured, late-season perennial featuring deep ruby-red, daisy-like flowers with golden centres. Flowering from late Summer through mid-Autumn, it adds bold, jewel-toned colour just as many other plants are winding down.
Perfect for cottage gardens, mixed borders, and pollinator-friendly plantings, Royal Ruby thrives in full sun and moist, well-drained soil. It benefits from regular watering and good airflow to reduce the risk of mildew. Space plants 40–50cm apart to encourage strong, healthy growth.
Grows to approximately 60cm tall and 50cm wide, forming a compact, upright clump covered in vivid, late-season flowers.
Trimming: Cut back stems to about one-third after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. In late autumn or early winter, trim spent growth to ground level to prepare for dormancy.
Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers during the flowering season to extend flowering and keep the plant looking neat.
Fertilising: Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring. Avoid over-fertilising, which can lead to lush foliage at the expense of flowers.
Watering: Water well during establishment and in dry periods, especially in summer when flowering. Keep soil evenly moist but well-drained.
Pest Control: Watch for aphids and mites, particularly during warm, dry weather. Use insecticidal soap or encourage natural predators like ladybirds.
Disease Management: Susceptible to powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions. Ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and use a fungicide if needed. Remove and dispose of any affected foliage to prevent spread.
Enjoy complimentary delivery anywhere in mainland New Zealand when you purchase plants worth $250 or more*.
For orders below $250, the following flat-rate delivery charges are applicable:
- Urban delivery within mainland New Zealand: $19.95
- Rural delivery within mainland New Zealand: $39.95
- Waiheke, Chatham and Great Barrier Islands: Please contact us for shipping options.
We aim to have all orders shipped within 14 days from the order date, unless a different shipping date is specified alongside a product.
