Russell Stafford
Family
Asteraceae
Botanical Name
Aster laevis 'Blue Bird'
Plant Common Name
Smooth Blue Aster
General Description
This outstanding smooth aster selection was introduced by Dr. Richard Lighty of the Mt. Cuba Center in northern Delaware. Its clouds of vibrant lavender-blue daisies are displayed in late summer to early autumn on tall, smooth, branched stems. Glaucous, blue-green, mildew-resistant, broadly lance-shaped leaves are borne alternately on the stems, and tend to remain fresh, green and attractive throughout the growing season. The showy flowers are highly attractive to butterflies and other small pollinating insects.
This tough, drought-tolerant perennial performs best in full sun, and is adaptable to a wide range of soil conditions. Stems may be cut back by half in late spring or very early summer to encourage bushier growth and heavier flowering. If desired, clumps may be divided in spring every few years. ‘Bluebird’ is an excellent choice for mixed borders or wildflower gardens, and its blossoms make beautiful, long-lasting cut flowers. Try combining it with sweet coneflower (Rudbeckia subtomentosa), switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) ‘Prairie Sky’, Russian sage and staghorn sumac (Rhus typhinia) ‘Tiger Eyes’ for a breathtaking late-season display.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
8 - 1
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun
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Height
2'-4' / 0.6m - 1.2m
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Width
18"-24" / 45.7cm - 61.0cm
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Bloom Time
Summer, Late Summer, Early Fall, Fall, Late Fall
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Native To
North America, Europe, Asia
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Showy
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Fragrant Flowers
Yes
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Fragrant Fruit
No
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Fragrant Foliage
Yes
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
Yes
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Flower Petal Number
Single
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Repeat Bloomer
No
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Showy Fruit
No
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Edible Fruit
No
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Showy Foliage
No
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Foliage Texture
Medium
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Foliage Sheen
Matte
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Evergreen
No
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Showy Bark
No
Special Characteristics
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Sharp or Has Thorns
No
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Invasive
No
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Attracts
Birds, Butterflies
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Self-Sowing
Yes
