Common Names: Smooth Blue Aster
Scientific Name: Symphyotrichum laeve
 
Plant Characteristics
Duration: Perennial
Size: Height of 2 - 4 ft., 1 - 2 ft. wide.
Bloom Color: Purple to Violet, with yellow centers
Bloom Time: Late Summer to Early Fall
 
Growing Conditions
Water Use: Low to Moderate
Light Requirement: Full Sun to Part Shade
Soil Moisture: Average to Dry
 
Ecological Benefits
The showy flowers are an important source of nectar for late season pollinators, especially Monarchs as they stock up for their fall migration to Mexico.
 
This native prefers dry, rich soils and plenty of sunshine. It is deer resistant and drought tolerant.
 
Bees and butterflies are frequent visitors to this amazing pollinator favorite, and larval host for the Pearl Crescent butterfly. Songbirds and small mammals enjoy the seeds during the winter months.