Sun Exposure: Sun, Part Sun
Soil Moisture: Medium-Wet, Medium, Medium-Dry
Soil Type: Sand, Loam, Loamy-Clay
Height: 2 - 4 feet
Spread: 1 - 2 feet
Blooms: August, September, October
Root: Fibrous, Rhizomatous
Habitat: Prairies, Woodland borders, Savannas, Limestone Glades, Roadsides
Landscape uses: Pollinator gardens, Meadow plantings, Boulevard plantings,
Complimentary Plants: Stiff Goldenrod, Indiangrass, Little Bluestem, White Goldenrod
Wildlife Value: The pollen and nectar attract many types of insects. Host Plant: Silvery Checkerspot and Pearl Crescent Butterfly, many moth species
Seed Origin: Wasaga Beach, ON
Germination Code: A
Photo credits: #1/2/3 by Sundaura Alford-Purvis
Symphyotrichum laeve - Smooth Aster
Smooth Blue Aster is a lovely plant for pollinator gardens and naturalization. Its non-aggressive rhizomatous root system will allow this plant to spread out slowy. The tough stem often turns a shade of blue and will allow this plant to stand tall during its long blooming period from late summer to mid fall.