Sun Exposure: Sun, Part Sun, Part Shade, Shade
Soil Moisture: Medium-Wet, Medium, Medium-Dry
Soil Type: Sand, Loam, Loamy-Clay
Height: 2 feet
Spread: 1 - 2 feet
Blooms: August, September, October
Root: Fibrous, Rhizomatous
Habitat: Woodland borders, Moist meadows. This plant is primarily a woodland species, but it often strays into moist sunny areas nearby. It prefers areas with a history of disturbance.
Landscape uses: Pollinator gardens, Meadow plantings, Naturalization, Shady gardens
Complimentary Plants: Blue-stemmed Goldenrod, New England Aster, Black-eyed Susan
Wildlife Value: The florets of Calico Aster have shorter nectar tubes than many other species of asters, and they attract a wide variety of insects, particularly in sunny areas. Host Plant: Pearl Crescent, Silvery Checkerspot Butterflies, many species of Moths.
Seed Origin: Wasaga Beach, Ontario
Germination Code: A
Photo credits: Sundaura Alford-Purvis
Symphyotrichum lateriflorum - Calico Aster
Loose clusters of flowers are found concentrated mainly on one side of the widely spreading branches of Calico Aster. Like most Asters, it attracts a variety of insects but it has shorter nectar tubes. Its common name refers to the diverse colors of the disk florets as they mature. This aster is more attractive in woodland, or semi shaded areas, where it has a delicate appearance.