spreading aster
Symphyotrichum patens
USDA zones4 to 8
SunHandles full sun or partial sun or full shade
WaterHandles dry to moist soil
Size2 to 3 feet tall18 to 24 inches wide
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Habit
- Herb
- Bloom season
- Summer, autumn, winter
- Bloom color
- Purple
- Foliage color
- Dark green
- Soil types
- Sand
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Spreading aster (Symphyotrichum patens) is a perennial for borders, pollinator gardens, cottage gardens, and rock gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 4, or down to -30°F (-34°C). This plant likes full sun to full shade and dry to moist, sandy soil. Purple flowers open from summer into autumn. Butterflies and bees visit the blooms. It is also salt tolerant, so it can work in tough spots.
Pairs well with Blue sage, Sundrops, and Blue fescue.
Native range
AL, AR, CT, DC, and 26 more places. See all 30
AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, and WV; NB.