[not verified in body] The Latin specific epithet novi-belgii (literally "New Belgium") refers not to modern Belgium, but the 17th century Dutch colony New Netherland which was established on land currently occupied by New York state[4] (as Belgica Foederata was the Latin term for the United Netherlands at the time).

Symphyotrichum novi-belgii grows in abandoned fields and wet meadows in eastern Canada and the northeastern United States.

[citation needed] They are valued for their late summer color in shades of blue, pink and white.

They are best planted in an open, sunny position, and they are susceptible to fungal infections, especially if conditions are not ideal.

[citation needed] The cultivars 'Coombe Fishacre'[5] and 'Fellowship'[6] have gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.