Symphyotrichum lateriflorum

Home » Plants » Symphyotrichum lateriflorum
Symphyotrichum Lateriflorum 5 Symphyotrichum Lateriflorum 4 Symphyotrichum Lateriflorum 1 Symphyotrichum Lateriflorum Symphyotrichum Lateriflorum 6 Symphyotrichum Lateriflorum 3
Symphyotrichum Lateriflorum 5 Symphyotrichum Lateriflorum 4 Symphyotrichum Lateriflorum 1 Symphyotrichum Lateriflorum Symphyotrichum Lateriflorum 6 Symphyotrichum Lateriflorum 3

Symphyotrichum lateriflorum

Common Name: Calico Aster

Calico Aster is a delicate yet resilient wildflower that produces small white (rarely pinkish or violet) flowers with yellow centers that turn reddish with age. It grows 1-3 feet tall and is commonly found in woodland edges, floodplains, and moist prairies. This species is valuable to pollinators, especially late-season bees and butterflies. It works well in naturalized plantings, rain gardens, and woodland gardens due to its adaptability and extended bloom time.

Characteristics

Product Form Plant, Seed
Type Forb
Sun Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Soil Clay, Loam, Sand/Gravel, Peat, Calcareous
Moisture Dry, Mesic, Wet
Average Max Height (inches) 36
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches) 30
Bloom month(s) August, September, October
Bloom Color or Type Varies
Dominance High

Range Maps

Sowing Information

For most homeowners, the recommended method is to hand-broadcast seed at a minimum rate of 16–64 PLS (Pure Live Seed) ounces per acre. To ensure even coverage, broadcast the seed in perpendicular passes across the site. Grass seed should be broadcast first and lightly raked into the soil. Afterward, apply a light mulch layer using clean, seed-free straw or, preferably, our native Little Bluestem straw, available at our retail garden centers. Once mulching is complete, broadcast native wildflower seed over the area without raking it in. A good rainfall or thorough watering will provide sufficient soil contact for successful germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.