smooth blue aster

Botanical Name: Symphyotrichum laeve
Plant Family: Aster (Asteraceae)

Description: A 2-4 ft. perennial with lavender blue flowers and yellow centers. This is one of the most attractive of the asters, with bright green foliage that is smooth to the touch.

Growing Conditions: Prefers full sun and tolerates dry, shallow rocky soil. Typical in prairies, rocky glades or dry woods. Easily self-seeds.

Bloom Time: Late, September to October
Bloom Color: Purple

Benefit to pollinators/wildlife: Attractive to native bees and butterflies.

Native Status: Native to PA

Location in habitat: Pollinator Demonstration Garden