Aster macrophyllus - 2 Gallon

Aster macrophyllus - 2 Gallon

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Aster macrophyllus, known as Bigleaf Aster, is a shade tolerant native perennial prized for its large heart shaped basal leaves and clusters of soft lavender blue flowers that appear in late summer.

Height & Spread: 1.5 - 3 ft x 2 - 3 ft

Bloom Time: Late summer (August to September)

Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade; tolerates morning sun

Soil Preference: Dry to medium, well drained soil; tolerates clay and rocky substrates

Watering Needs: Low once established; moderately drought-tolerant

Deer Resistance: Moderate to high; not a preferred food source, but may be nibbled occasionally

NATIVE STATUS

Native to eastern and central North America, commonly found in dry deciduous forests, wooded slopes, and shaded clearings. It plays a functional role in native woodland ecosystems, particularly in the understory layer.

WILDLIFE & INSECTS

Butterflies

  • Offers nectar for late flying species such as Monarchs, Pearly Crescents, and Red Admirals.

Bees

  • Supports a variety of woodland adapted native bees, especially bumblebees and small sweat bees that forage in shaded settings.

Other Insects

  • Its flowers attract hoverflies and parasitic wasps, which help maintain garden pest balance. The large leaves can also shelter overwintering insects.
  • Though not a primary host plant, it provides key nectar support in environments where few other flowers bloom late in the season.

SPACING & LANDSCAPE USE

Spacing Recommendations

  • Space 18 - 24 in apart to allow for natural spreading and groundcover development.

Landscape Placement

  • Ideal for shady borders, woodland edges, under deciduous trees, or naturalized shade gardens. It excels as a textural filler in dry, understory plantings and helps suppress weeds with its broad leaves.

COMPANION PLANTS

  • Asarum canadense (Wild Ginger) - spring foliage partner and low growing native for dry shade.

  • Maianthemum racemosum (False Solomon’s Seal) - adds early flowers and arching structure.

  • Carex blanda (Common Wood Sedge) - tough groundcover grass for woodland cohesion.

  • Aquilegia canadensis (Columbine) - spring bloomer that thrives in filtered light.

  • Polemonium reptans (Jacob’s Ladder) - soft textured spring flower for layered shade interest.