Bring the Outdoors Home

Aromatic Aster | Plant Profile

Aromatic Aster (Symphyotrichum oblongifolium) are fragrant meadow plants that are native to the American midwest. These perennials can grow up to 3′ and are dotted with purple daisy-like flowers above the foliage.

Aromatic Aster prefers average fertility, dry to medium moisture, well drained soils in full sun. They can be tolerant of poor soils and drought.

These perennials are perfect additions to wildflower gardens or hillsides with shallow soils for erosion control. Their fragrance attracts butterflies and other beneficial insects. Aromatic Aster make beautiful additions to pollinator gardens.

Description

Aromatic Aster Characteristics

Aromatic Aster are highly fragrant perennials, as indicated by the name. In nature they are often found in dry plains and open ground. The foliage creates a bushy groundcover. The leaves are stiff and particularly fragrant when damaged. The flowers reach above the foliage on hairy stems and are violet blue with yellow centers. The flowers are often cut and displayed in vases.

Aromatic Aster can be quite disease and insect resistant. Some mildews may occur in humid climates. Stem support may be required for tall plants as the blooms can be too heavy for their stems.

USDA Climate Zone
Zones 3 - 8
Height
1.00 - 3.00'
Spread
1.00 - 3.00'
Bloom Time
August - September
Water
Dry - Medium
Sun
Full Sun
Maintenance
Medium
Deer Resistant?
No