smooth aster
Symphyotrichum laeve
USDA zones3 to 9
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterHandles dry to moist soil
Size2 to 4 feet tall12 to 24 inches wide
- Growth rate
- Rapid
- Habit
- Herb
- Bloom season
- Summer, autumn
- Bloom color
- Violet to purple rays and yellow centers
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay, chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Smooth aster (Symphyotrichum laeve) is a perennial for borders, meadows, rain gardens, and pollinator gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes full or part sun and dry to moist soil of most types. Violet to purple rays surround yellow centers in late summer and autumn, and the bright green leaves feel smooth to the touch. It is not a favorite of deer, though hungry deer will eat almost anything. Butterflies, bees, and birds visit the flowers.
Pairs well with Goldsturm black-eyed Susan, Indian grass, Prairie dropseed, and Nodding onion.
Native range
North America.