Aromatic Aster
Symphyotrichum oblongifolium
General Information
Aromatic Aster is easy to grow. It tolerates poor soils and drought and is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial.
Aromatic Aster is typically found on rock outcrops in dry woodlands over limestone, in slopes, prairies and dry open ground.
Aromatic Aster has showy lavender or light purple flowers. Its blooms from July to October and is often one of the last flowers blooming before a heavy frost.
Aromatic Aster’s common name comes from the balsam-like fragrance it gives off when its stems and leaves are crushed. It makes a good cut flower.
Plant Information
Plant Type:
Herbaceous perennial
Sun Preference:
Full Sun
Soil Moisture Preference:
Medium-Dry * Dry
Plant Height:
2 feet
Plant Width:
1 to 2 feet
Plant Spacing:
1 to 1.5 feet
Flower Color:
Purple
Flower timing:
August to November
Culture Information:
Aromatic Aster works best in butterfly gardens, native gardens, pollinator gardens, open shade gardens, woodland gardens. It can be mass planted along walkways or be used as a border plant. It is also at home in meadows and naturalized areas.
When first planted, Aromatic Aster should be watered weekly for first few months, unless at least an inch of rain has been received in the last week to help it get established. After it becomes established, Aromatic Aster does not need watering, as it is drought tolerant.
Aromatic Aster can be cut back to the ground in late fall or over winter.
Tolerates:
Drought
Erosion
Clay Soil
Dry Soil
Shallow-Rocky Soil
Deer
Rabbits
Pests & Disease:
Aromatic Aster typically has no serious insect problems.
Aromatic Aster doesn’t usually have serious disease problems. It is somewhat susceptible to mildew.
Wildlife Use:
Pollinators: Aromatic Aster attracts bees and butterflies and supports the specialized bees Andrena asteris, Andrena asteroides, Andrena hirticincta, Andrena nubecula, Andrena placata, Andrena simplex, and Colletes simulans.
Birds: N/A.
Mammals: N/A.
Other: N/A.
Native to:
More Information:
NC State Plant Database:
Missouri Botanical Garden:
TN-KY Plant Atlas
Other Link: