New York aster
One of the last major forage sources of the year, giving ample nectar and pollen in September-October; its honey granulates very fast, even in the comb.
- Nectar
- Good
- Pollen
- Medium
- Flowering
- JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
- Crystallisation
- Fast
- Pollen colour
- Height
- 0,6-1,5 m
- Life cycle
- Perennial
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Native to North America, the New York aster has escaped from gardens in Europe and become established on riverbanks and waste ground. On warm autumn days it is heavily visited by bees; supplying both nectar and pollen, it helps feed the bees that will overwinter and top up the last stores. Secretion depends on mild, sunny days; in cool, wet Septembers its contribution remains limited.
Flowering
From early September to the end of October, and into November in mild years.
Honey and pollen
It gives mixed autumn honey a light amber colour and a sharp, distinctive aroma. This honey granulates very quickly; if left in the hive as winter stores it can be hard for the bees to use. The pollen loads are yellowish.
Note for the beekeeper
It is considered invasive in some European countries and should not be allowed to spread into the wild. Grown under control in the garden, it is a good support plant for the late season.