Symphyotrichum oblongifolium

Aromatic aster Description:

Symphyotrichum oblongifolium, commonly known as the aromatic aster, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to North America. It typically grows to a height of 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) and has a bushy, spreading habit.

The leaves of Symphyotrichum oblongifolium are narrow and oblong-shaped, with a pleasant, aromatic scent when crushed. The flowers are daisy-like and arranged in loose clusters at the tips of the stems. They bloom in late summer to early fall, typically in shades of blue or lavender, with yellow centers.

Symphyotrichum oblongifolium prefers well-drained soils and full sun, but can tolerate some shade. It is a valuable plant for pollinators, attracting bees, butterflies, and other insects with its nectar-rich flowers. It is also used in ecological landscaping and as a native plant in gardens and naturalized areas.

This plant is easy to grow and can spread quickly, making it a great addition to naturalized areas, wildflower gardens, or borders. With its pleasant scent and late-season blooms, Symphyotrichum oblongifolium is a popular choice for gardeners and nature enthusiasts alike.

Native Range:

Aromatic aster can be found throughout the Central United States and into the East and Northeastern United States.

Standard Plant Information:

Plant Height: 1' - 2'

Bloom Time: September - October

Preferred Habitat: Does well in sun with sandy or rocky soil. Often found in prairies, outcrops, open woods, dunes, and roadsides.

Sowing:

For most homeowners, the best option is to scatter seed on the ground by hand broadcasting at a minimum of 16-64 pls ounces per acre. For even coverage, we recommend that you broadcast seed in perpendicular rows across the site to ensure even coverage.

You’ll want to broadcast any grass seed first, which will get raked into the soil lightly. Next, it is ideal to mulch the area lightly with either a clean (no seed) straw or preferably with our native Little Bluestem straw, sold at our retail garden centers. After a light mulching is complete, now it’s time to broadcast your native wildflower seeds, which should not be raked into the soil. A good rain or watering is sufficient to cover the seed.

Planting:

Simply dig a hole in the soil slightly larger than the plant’s roots. Ensure that the soil line of the plant is maintained during the transfer (i.e. the plant should be at the same level with the ground as it was in the pot). Pack any loose dirt back around the plant and make sure you water it well the same day to ensure it has the best chance of survival.