Smooth Blue Aster

Symphyotrichum laeve

Perennial Locally native Deer resistant Chelsea chop

Flower colour

Lavender-blue to violet with yellow centers

Bloom time

Late summer to fall

Height

24–48"

Light

Full sun to part shade

Moisture

Average to dry (very drought-tolerant once established). It is highly versatile and handles sand, loam, and heavy clay loam well, provided it has good drainage. It is extremely drought-tolerant.

Native to Ontario

Yes

Ecological benefit

Hosts many specialist and generalist species, including: Pearl Crescent butterfly, Silvery Checkerspot. Numerous moth species (asters are major larval hosts).

Notes

Critical late-season nectar source for bees and butterflies. Supports migrating monarchs fueling up before departure. One of the most important genera (Symphyotrichum) for supporting insect biodiversity.