New England Aster - Symphyotrichum novae-angliae

Also known as  Aster novae-angliae.

Features: This prairie plant likes quite a bit of sun. Its lavender flowers are larger and more purple than most asters. They provide an attractive nectar source for a range of bees, flies, butterflies and skippers, especially late in the growing season when few other plants are blooming. It is an important nectar source for migrating Monarchs.

Light:  Sun; tolerates light shade

Soil: Moist to Medium

Height: 2 to 3 feet

Blooms: August to October

See more information and photos at Illinois Wildflowers and USDA Plants Database