Aster azureus, also known as 'Sky Blue Aster', is a beautiful drought tolerant native wildflower that brings clouds of pale lavender blue daisies to the fall garden. With a naturally airy, upright form and delicate flowers, it adds soft color, texture, and essential late season nectar to native landscapes.
Height & Spread: 2 - 3 ft x 1.5 - 2 ft
Bloom Time: Early fall (September to October)
Light Requirements: Full sun to light shade
Soil Preference: Prefers dry to medium, well drained soils; thrives in sandy or rocky sites
Watering Needs: Low once established; drought-tolerant
Deer Resistance: High; deer rarely browse it due to rough foliage texture
NATIVE STATUS
Native to North America, found primarily in the Midwest and Great Plains. It naturally occurs in prairies, open woodlands, limestone glades, and dry hillsides. Its deep taproot and tough constitution make it especially well suited to native habitat restorations and sustainable landscaping.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Offers vital nectar to Monarchs during migration, as well as to Painted Ladies and Sulphurs.
- A known host plant for the Silvery Checkerspot butterfly and home to caterpillars of native moths.
Bees
- Supports over 20 species of native bees, including sweat bees and long-tongued bumblebees.
Other Insects
- Its flowers also attract beneficial predatory insects like syrphid flies.
- High ecological value, supporting both nectar feeders and larval stages.
SPACING & LANDSCAPE USE
Spacing Recommendations
- Plant 18 - 24 in apart for best air circulation and natural fullness.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for dry native prairies, pollinator strips, wildflower meadows, sunny slopes, and gravel gardens. Use toward the middle of the border where its airy structure adds movement and fall softness.
COMPANION PLANTS
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Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - complementary form and shared habitat.
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Solidago nemoralis (Gray Goldenrod) - golden contrast for late season impact.
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Echinacea pallida (Pale Purple Coneflower) - early bloom partner with graceful flower form.
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Bouteloua curtipendula (Sideoats Grama) - for texture and drought tolerance.
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Monarda punctata (Spotted Beebalm) - aromatic, pollinator rich companion with overlapping habitat needs.