I read several mentions of wild asters growing in the Avonlea (Cavendish) area in the "Anne" books, but I have yet to see any asters there (or, indeed, anywhere on PEI). Do they in fact grow here?

Hi Russ,

Thank you for contacting Ask An Islander.

On PEI, autumn is for Asters. These beautiful and often colourful flowers can be found in many Island habitats during the fall season such as sand dunes, salt marshes, wetlands, bogs, stream sides, forests, and fields.  They even grow along our roadsides, so here is some more information about the common ones:

There are well over 100 members of the Aster Family (Asteracea) on PEI, and about fifteen of these are commonly called ‘Asters’. This family also includes plants like Daisies, Goldenrods, Hawkweeds, and Thistles, among many others. 

New York Aster  is among our most common, and the one you frequently see along Island roads in late summer and fall.  Despite its name, this wildflower is native to PEI.  Its ray flowers (petals) are relatively long and wide as far as Asters go and are usually pale pink (although you can sometimes find both darker and lighter varieties in garden centres).  In the centre of the rays are yellow disk flowers.

If you are staying until the fall, hopefully you get a chance to see the Asters!

Have a great day,

Jonah