Symphyotrichum (Aster) lavae Smooth Aster

General

A North American native perennial with smooth, lance-shaped leaves and clusters of small, daisy-like flowers. These flowers typically range in color from pale blue to lavender and bloom in late summer to early fall, attracting butterflies and bees with their abundant nectar sources.

Plant Description

Features slender, smooth stems adorned with lance-shaped leaves that alternate along their length. From late summer through early fall, it produces numerous clusters of small, daisy-like flowers with lavender to pale blue petals surrounding yellow centers, creating a profusion of color. These blooms attract pollinators and lend a delicate charm to gardens, meadows, and woodland edges across its native range in North America.

Height (ft)
2-4'

Soil moisture
Dry to Medium

Soil types
Average, Well Drained

Shade tolerance
Intolerant, Full Sun

Bloom color
Purple

Bloom period
Fall

Drought tolerance
Medium

Salinity tolerance
None

 

Range

Throughout North America, mainly in the Appalachians, along the Mississippi River, North-Central to North-West Canadian Border, and in the Rocky Mountains. Some populations in Northeastern Mexico, and South-Central Canada.

Kartesz, J.T. 2024. Floristic Synthesis of North America, Version 1.0. Biota of North America Program (BONAP) [website http://bonap.org/]

Additional Information