Sun Exposure: Part Sun, Shade
Soil Moisture: Medium-Wet, Medium, Medium-Dry
Soil Type: Sand-Loam, Loam, Loam-Clay
Height: 1 - 3 feet
Spread: 1 - 2 feet
Blooms: September, October
Root: Fibrous, Short Rhizomatous
Habitat: Deciduous woodlands, Woodland borders, Thinly wooded bluffs, Shaded areas along streambanks, and Rocky wooded slopes
Landscape uses: Pollinator garden, Shady garden, Naturalization
Complimentary Plants: Zig zag goldenrod, Blue-stem Goldenrod, Large Leaved Aster
Wildlife Value: The nectar and pollen of the flowerheads attract many kinds of insects, including long-tongued bees, short-tongued bees, wasps, flies, butterflies, skippers, and beetles. Bees are particularly important pollinators of the flowers. Host Plant: Silvery Checkerspot, Pearl Crescent and many moth species.
Seed Origin: Winona, MN (Prairie Moon seed supplier)
Germination Code: C(60)
Photo credits: #1 by Douglas Goldman ,#2 by Doppelbrau
Symphyotrichum cordifolium - Heart-leaved Aster
Heart-leaved Aster, also known as Blue Wood Aster is a great shade garden plant that ranges in height from 1-3 feet depending on the soil fertility and moisture conditions. It pairs great with Fall blooming Goldenrods and is an important source of late season food for pollinators. This Aster grows best in partial shade but will tolerate nearly full shade and nearly full sun.