willowleaf aster
Symphyotrichum praealtum
USDA zones3 to 9
SunHandles full sun to full shade
WaterHandles moderate to wet soil
Size2 to 5 feet tall1.5 to 4 feet wide
- Habit
- Herb
- Bloom season
- Summer, autumn
- Bloom color
- Lavender rays and yellow centers
- Soil types
- Sand
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Willowleaf aster (Symphyotrichum praealtum) is a perennial for rain gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes full sun to full shade and average to wet, sandy soil. It grows 24 to 60 inches tall and blooms in late summer and autumn with lavender rays and yellow centers. Its flowers draw butterflies and bees, and they give migrating Monarch butterflies an important source of nectar.
Pairs well with Joe Pye weed, Great blue lobelia, and Sedge.
Native range
Southeastern to central and southwestern United States.