Smooth Blue Aster

Symphyotrichum laeve

Native to: All New England

Life cycle: Perennial

Seed source(s): Wild Seed Project, Cumberland County, ME

Light: Full/Partial Sun

Soil Moisture: Medium-Wet to Medium-Dry

Height: 1-4’ Spread: 12-18” Spacing: 18-24”

Blooms: August-October

Bloom Color: Blue, purple

Natural Habitat: Dry, open woods and fields; disturbed areas and roadsides

Pairs Well With: Butterfly milkweed, foxglove beardtongue, sundial lupine, black-eyed coneflower, foxglove beardtongue, flax-leaved aster, and little bluestem

Benefits: Pollinator Favorite, Bird Favorite, Host Plant (Pearl Crescent, Silvery Checkerspot butterflies), Drought Tolerant, Urban Environment, Low Maintenance

“Smooth aster boasts purple flowers and metallic blue-gray leaves that are attractive all season long. This drought-tolerant species is a great choice for planting along woodland edges or in patial shade, and attracts numerous pollinators, hosting the Cresent butterfly.”

–Native Plant Trust