Aster oblongifolius
Aster oblongifolius is a resilient native perennial with aromatic blue green foliage and masses of lavender blue daisy like flowers that appear in late summer and fall. Also known as aromatic aster, it forms a dense rounded habit that provides vibrant seasonal color while thriving in dry sunny landscapes where many perennials struggle.
Height & Spread: 18 - 24 in x 24 - 36 in
Bloom Time: Late summer to fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Average to dry well drained soil
Watering Needs: Low; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This species is native to the central and eastern United States where it naturally occurs in dry prairies, open woodlands, and rocky sites. It is valued in native gardens for its late season blooms and ability to support pollinators when many other plants have finished flowering.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Provides an important late season nectar source for butterflies including Monarchs, Painted Ladies, and Swallowtails preparing for migration or winter survival.
Bees
- Attracts native bees and bumblebees which gather nectar and pollen from the abundant fall flower clusters.
Birds
- Produces seeds that can provide a seasonal food source for songbirds after flowering while its dense growth offers additional cover.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 24 - 36 in apart to accommodate its naturally rounded growth habit and allow room for airflow between plants.
Landscape Placement
- Excellent for native plant gardens, pollinator borders, meadow plantings, and dry sunny areas where its fall flowers provide valuable late season color.
Companion Plants
- Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Adds fine textured native grass structure and complements the soft blue tones of the foliage.
- Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly Weed) - Provides bright orange summer blooms and supports pollinators earlier in the season.
- Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' (Black Eyed Susan) - Offers golden summer flowers that create contrast before aromatic aster begins blooming.
- Solidago rugosa 'Fireworks' (Goldenrod) - Extends fall interest with golden blooms that pair naturally with asters in native landscapes.
- Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah' (Switchgrass) - Provides upright structure and seasonal color while creating a natural meadow appearance.