Symphyotrichum oblongifolium

Also known as Aromatic Aster, Aromatic American Aster, Fall Aster, Wild Blue Aster, Shale Aster.

Symphyotrichum oblongifolium is a bushy mounding perennial. Its aromatic leaves are gray-green and pubescent. In early autumn, the foliage is embellished by cheerful lavender daisies. The flowers are more extensive than other asters and showy, with an abundance of petal-like rays. This robust plant is tough and adaptable, prospering in sun and drought. 

Fall aster creates dazzling purple mounds in the fall season. It spreads slowly through stolons, so it's essential to thin it out regularly to keep it under control. The plant may become sparse if it gets too heavy, so it's a good idea to keep it dense by pruning it back by a maximum of half in June. After it goes dormant, wait to cut it back to the basal rosette in late fall or early winter.

Nectar Source Plant: Black Swallowtail (Papilio polyxenes), Gulf Fritillary (Dione vanillae), Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui), Common Checkered Skipper ( Pyrgus communis), Question Mark Butterfly (Polygonia interrogationis), Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta), Spicebush Swallowtail (Papilio troilus)

BONAP MAP

Height: 2’-3'
Spread: 1’-3'
Bloom: September, October, November
Light: Full sun, Part Shade, Dappled Shade 
Water: Low, Medium
Zone: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Origin: Texas to Wyoming