Scientific classification Kingdom: Plantae Division: Magnoliophyta Class: Magnoliopsida Order: Asterales Family: Asteraceae Tribe: Astereae Genus: Aster

A genus rather than a single flower variety, the Aster family includes some 600 species of widely distributed flowering plant. The name "aster" is derived from the Greek word for "star" - a reference to the shape of its pretty flowers.

Popular with gardeners and florists alike, the traditional flower-shaped flowers of the aster also play host to many species of butterfly and moth. These insects not only feed on the flowers, but utilize them as a food source for their larvae. The aster also attracts other wildlife, including birds and bees.

Rather bizarrely, as well as being a symbol of love and caring, aster is also believed to symbolise "after thought". The exception to this is China, where the aster signifies fidelity.

Popular varieties of aster include Italian Aster, Blue Wood Aster, White Wood Aster, Heath Aster, New England Aster and New York Aster. Other varieties, such Frost and Sea Aster are also available. These varieties differ in shape and size, but maintain a similar petal formation and general appearance. The varieties favored in floristry are typically seen in white, or a pale blue-purple. A darker purple variety is also available to the florist.

Of the many varieties which may be seen in the garden, "Aster tongolensis" is perhaps the most popular. With its brilliant white petals and large yellow centre, it bears a strong resemblance to the common daisy. The aster has long been a favourite of the gardener, bringing a splash of colour to the autumn border. Long after other flowers have reached their peak and begun to face, the aster will continue to flower from September to December, conditions permitting.

It is partly because of this that the common name "September flower" was born. The "September flower" name is also a reference to the aster being the birth flower for September. A link between these two facts is obvious, the former reference likely being the earlier of the two to surface.

Especially common with florists, its dainty appearance and subtle colours make it an ideal alternative to flowers such as gypsophila and solidaster. When in the florists shop, you are more likely to see aster referred to as "September" - a name more popular with florists than with gardeners who seem to prefer just "aster". The names "September" and "Aster" are interchangeable however, so it is acceptable to use whichever; your florist will know what you mean either way! It is also sometimes referred to as Monte Casino.

Cultivars available to the florist include Cassandra, Casablanca, Celesta and Cecelia. These are typically available in single or "double" stem form - the latter providing a much fuller stem. Many florists would agree that this defeats the whole idea of aster - losing the traditional, dainty charm amid a mass of petals; charm which is perfectly maintained in the single-stem variety.

To get the best effect in floristry, combine the aster with other pretty, traditional flowers. A bouquet of lilies or roses, mixed with September and a little foliage - perhaps a sprig or two of lavender - looks beautiful and has a real "country cottage" feel. It is less suited to more contemporary, exotic bouquets, looking slightly out of place admid such flowers as the Bird of Paradise.

For the best effect in gardening, they should be planted towards the back of the flowerbed, combined with other late flowering plants such as Japanese anemones. The anemone is another beautiful, dainty flower variety - also available in floristry, looking beautiful combined in a bouquet with September flower.

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