
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.