New England Aster is a late-bloomer, like most Asters. Maturing to 5' tall, it is rich with purple flowers with orange-yellow centers from late summer to October. Popular with pollinators, it thrives in full sun or light shade in all but the driest soils.
Chelone glabra is an important host plant providing larval food for the lovely orange and
brown Baltimore Checkerspot butterfly. Its nectar also attracts other butterflies and bumblebees.
The flowers can be moved around the stem and will stay in the given position, thus the name 'Obedient' Plant. The Narrow-leaved Obedient Plant has lighter pink flowers and blooms earlier, making it a nice companion plant.