Frost Aster
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Symphyotrichum pilosum
Symphyotrichum pilosum, commonly known as frost aster (hairy stems appear to be covered with thick frost), is an herbaceous perennial in the aster family that typically grows to 4’ tall and as wide on one or more leafy, sometimes-branching stems. It is native to upland prairies, weedy meadows, pastures, open woodlands, limestone glades, abandoned/old fields, railroad right of ways, roadsides, and waste ground from Quebec and Ontario south to Texas and Florida.
Flowers in branching clusters bloom from summer to fall. Each flower features 15-35 white rays surrounding a yellow center disc, which turns reddish-purple with age. Flowers are followed by a fruit (dry seed with a tuft of white hairs).
Best growth typically occurs in moist, semi-shaded woodland areas. Tolerates full sun in cool summer climates, but appreciates some part shade in climates where summer temperatures consistently exceed 90 degrees F. Tolerates periodic flooding. Stems may be pinched back in late spring to early summer if shorter plants are desired. Plants can spread aggressively by self-seeding.
Height: 2’-4’
Spread: 2’-4’
Bloom: August-October
Light: Part Shade
Water: Low to Medium
Zone: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Origin: North America
Winter Shipping: We will continue to ship throughout winter. If you prefer, we are happy to hold your order until spring; please include that request in your shipping notes.
When you order plants from our nursery, you can expect them to arrive in the best possible condition. Our team carefully packs each order using sturdy, biodegradable packaging materials.
Your plants' appearance may vary depending on the season and their current growth stage. We may cut back the leafy growth of some plants to prepare them for shipment and transplanting.
5 Gallon and Up: Any plant purchased to ship over 5 Gallons will be shipped bare root. This means we will remove the plant from its original pot, remove the soil surrounding the roots, and wrap the roots with a biodegradable plastic bag. This reduces weight and the likelihood of damage during shipping.
Once your plants arrive, it is essential to plant them as soon as possible. This will help them rebound and thrive. If you cannot plant immediately, water regularly and keep the roots off heat-conducting surfaces.
Newly transplanted plants often require more water until their roots are well established. Plan to water them 1-3 times weekly for the first few months.
