calico aster
Symphyotrichum lateriflorum
USDA zones3 to 9
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterHandles moderate to moist soil
Size2 to 3 feet tall2 to 3 feet wide
- Habit
- Herb
- Bloom season
- Summer, autumn
- Bloom color
- White with reddish-purple centers
- Foliage color
- Green
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Calico aster (Symphyotrichum lateriflorum) is a perennial for woodland and meadow gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes full or part sun and average to moist soil. The flower heads start out yellow and turn purplish-red with age. One plant, or even one head, can show both colors at once. Butterflies visit the white blooms in late summer and early to mid autumn.
Pairs well with Bellwort, Foxtail barley, and David garden phlox.
Native range
North America.