Symphyotrichum oblongifolium (Aromatic Aster)

A confirmed deer- and rabbit-resistant keystone species, aromatic aster keeps bees busy later into the season than almost any other native wildflower in the catalog, its fragrant, crushed leaves offering a distinctive sensory bonus alongside genuine ecological substance as a member of the keystone Symphyotrichum genus.

Species Overview

Symphyotrichum oblongifolium, or aromatic aster, is a bushy, compact perennial wildflower native primarily to the central Plains with scattered eastern populations, typically growing 1 to 3 feet tall. Rigid, oblong, blue-green leaves release a pleasant fragrance when crushed, with the plant covered in violet-blue to purple daisy-like flowers from late summer through the first hard frost - one of the very last asters to bloom each season.

Application

• Last-of-the-season pollinator plantings - blooms into the first hard frost
• Deer- and rabbit-pressured sites - confirmed resistant to both
• Dry, rocky, sunny slope and glade restoration
• Compact border, rock garden, and mixed prairie plantings

Growing Conditions / Specification Data

• Light: Full Sun
• Soil/Moisture Tolerance: Dry to average, well-drained soils; rocky or sandy, neutral to slightly acidic
• Drought Tolerance: High
• Flood Tolerance: Low - A dry prairie aster, consistent with this species' already-confirmed habitat profile from earlier work.
• Plant Type: Forb
• Mature Height: 2-4 ft.
• Fall Color: Insignificant/None
• Bloom Color / Period: Purple; September-November
• Wetland Indicator Status: NI (No Indicator) - see flags
• Native Range: Northeast/Mid-Atlantic (full list)
• Hydrology: Dry-Mesic
• Root Depth: Shallow (Under 12 in.)
• Salinity Tolerance: Low
• Growth Rate: Moderate
• Shade Tolerance: Intolerant
• Growth Habit: Clumping/Mounding
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-8
• Deer Resistance: Yes (Rarely Damaged)
• Pollinator Value: Supports bees, supports butterflies

Planting Guidance

• Reseeds heavily in good soil; new plants are easy to pull up if unwanted. Fragrant, oblong leaves release a pleasant aroma when crushed, distinguishing it from other late-season asters.

Please allow 3 business days for all seed orders.