In Greek mythology Iris was one seriously multitasking Godess.
Meaning “rainbow” in Greek, Iris was one of the goddesses of sea and sky serving as a messenger to the Gods. She was also known as the personification of the rainbow and served as a link between human kind and the Greek Gods.
Aster divaricatus now Eurybia divaricata but if you like you can still call it a Wood Aster. I love this little plant it’s what’s known as a good doer, and as its common name will tell you it’s not averse to growing in a bit of shade.
Aster divaricata now Eurybia divaricata
We sourced this beauty for a client in Much Marcle, Hereford who was looking to add some interest to a shadier part of the garden. Shade loving plants have a tendency to be earlier flowering so to have something flowering in August and September is a great addition to a woodland border.
Eurybia divaricata formerly Aster divaricata
If you’re a neat freak you can cut it back in late autumn, however, I would urge you to leave it standing until it becomes too irritating to bear as the Goldfinches seem to rather enjoy the seeds.