Smooth Blue Aster (Symphyotrichum laeve) is a seasonal interest plant with purple flowers that bloom from late summer through fall. They prefer mesic soil in sun to part sun where they can grow to 3 feet tall. If the soil it too fertile, they may tend to flop when blooming. They are a good choice for planting on slopes. Companion plants include Prairie Alumroot (Heuchera richardsonii) and Nodding Onion (Allium cernuum).
Maintenance
Plants may need staking once blooming begins. Deadhead post-bloom to prevent aggressive spread by self-seeding.
About
Light Requirements
Sun,
Part Sun,
Shade Moisture Requirements
Slopes Soil Requirements
Clay,
Loam Height
Short,
Medium Spacing
2 to 3 feet Category
Seasonal Attracts
Bees,
Butterflies Illinois Native Plant Status
Illinois Native,
Indiana Native Bloom Time
September,
October,
November Bloom Color
Purple,
Lavender Seasonality
Fall Sociability
Groups of 5-10 Other Notable Cultivars & Varieties
Symphyotrichum laeve 'Bluebird'