Aromatic Aster (Symphyotrichum oblongifolium)

Aromatic aster (Symphyotrichum oblongifolium) is an herbaceous perennial that is found growing in limestone glades, prairies, and open woodlands. It is a small, bushy plant that grows up to 3′ tall and spreads to form dense colonies. This late-summer blooming wildflower features blueish-purple, daisy-like flowers from August through September. Similar to other asters, the flower center is a bright yellow that matures to a deep red once pollinated.

This native plant is visited by numerous pollinators, including bees and butterflies. As its name implies, the leaves and stems are aromatic and emit a balsam-like fragrance when crushed. This is a robust plant that prefers to grow in sunny, dry conditions. In the right habitat, it is quite floriferous and will have numerous blooms decorating its foliage for weeks. Aromatic aster is a versatile plant and can be a great addition to naturalistic and formal gardens alike.