Symphyotrichum oblongifolium (Aromatic Aster)

grows 1-3 f. tall (short to medium height)

full sun

dry to medium soil

violet blooms late Sept. - Oct. (great for autumn color!)

the late season flowers are beneficial to pollinators including bumblebees, solitary bees, specialist bees, wasps, beetles

larval host plant

native habitat: dry rocky woodlands, barrens, cliffs and outcrops over moderately to strong calcareous rocks including limestone, dolomite, metabasalt, and shale

design tip: beautiful planted near a limestone bench, stone path, or boulder; a highlight of fall in Shenandoah Valley gardens

garden maintenance tip: may cut back aggressively after blooming or in late winter to prevent excessive growth