Aster oblongifolius 'Raydons Favorite' is a robust, fragrant, and long blooming fall aster that lights up the landscape with bright violet blue flowers. This cultivar is a top performer for late season color and pollinator support, forming a tidy habit ideal for borders and native garden designs.
Height & Spread: 2 - 3 ft x 2 - 3 ft
Bloom Time: September to November
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well drained, average to dry soil; thrives in sandy or rocky soils
Watering Needs: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: High; aromatic foliage deters browsing
NATIVE STATUS
Cultivar of the North American native Aster oblongifolius, naturally found in central and eastern U.S. It is an adaptable and resilient species often used in restoration and habitat friendly garden settings.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Attracts Monarchs, Pearl Crescents, and other migrating species seeking late nectar.
Bees
- A valuable floral resource for native solitary bees, honeybees, and bumblebees. Its long bloom period makes it especially useful for pollinators preparing for winter.
Other Insects
- Supports hoverflies, beneficial beetles, and small wasps. Also offers shelter in its dense foliage and stems for overwintering insects.
SPACING & LANDSCAPE USE
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 24 - 30 in apart to allow for natural mounding and airflow.
Landscape Placement
- Perfect for front of border positions, rock gardens, dry meadows, and native pollinator plantings. Also excellent for erosion control on banks or slopes due to its spreading habit and deep root system.
COMPANION PLANTS
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Bouteloua gracilis (Blue Grama Grass) - Low growing native grass that thrives in dry soil and complements the aster’s texture.
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Salvia azurea (Blue Sage) - Tall spikes of sky blue flowers that pair well with the aster’s mound of violet blooms.
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Eriogonum compositum (Northern Buckwheat) - Offers early to midsummer interest and thrives in similar dry conditions.
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Solidago nemoralis (Gray Goldenrod) - Compact fine textured goldenrod that blooms alongside and contrasts beautifully.
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Liatris punctata (Dotted Blazing Star) - A drought-tolerant Liatris species with purple spikes that precede the aster’s bloom.