Blooming well ahead of most asters, this compact upright perennial delivers weeks of living loveliness. Delicate violet-blue, daisylike flowers with bright orange centres rise above tidy, dark green foliage to draw in bees and butterflies early in the season. Growing no taller than 16", it fits easily into borders and garden beds without overwhelming its neighbours. Use this aster to fill small gaps between established perennials, adding vivid colour and pleasing structure. It also works well in mixed plantings, rock gardens, slopes and meadow-style designs.