Felder Rushing
Family
Asteraceae
Botanical Name
Aster oblongifolius
Plant Common Name
Aromatic Aster
General Description
This North American native is among the best perennials for providing bold masses of late-season color. Clouds of violet or purple daisies with fine petals and yellow centers appear in late summer and fall on stout, many-branched stems. A single plant can have a dozen or more flower stems. The blooms are irresistible to butterflies as well as other beneficial insects that flock to this late-season nectar source. The foliage is remarkably fragrant when crushed, hence its common name.
Full sun and well-drained soil with average fertility are key requirements for aromatic aster. Neutral to alkaline soil is preferred. Once established this tough perennial will tolerate heat and drought. Wild-type plants can become quite tall, so it is often necessary to stake the flower-laden stems. If pinched back by ΒΌ in early summer this aster will be more compact, have denser branching, and produce more flowers.
Showy wildflowers like this offer effortless beauty to home side perennial borders and naturalistic plantings alike. Gardeners keen on butterflies should also consider planting aromatic aster.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
8 - 1
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USDA Hardiness Zone
5 - 8
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun
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Height
3'-4' / 0.9m - 1.2m
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Width
2'-3' / 0.6m - 0.9m
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Bloom Time
Late Summer, Early Fall, Fall
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Native To
Northeastern United States, Mid-Atlantic United States, Southeastern United States, North-Central United States, Central United States, South-Central United States
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Showy
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Flower Color
Yellow, Purple, Violet
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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
