Sky Blue Aster is a great addition to the garden to increase pollinator resources in the fall. This late bloomer produces pale blue to light purple flowers with yellow centers.
Pollinator Type
Bees, butterflies, flies, beetles, caterpillars
Plant Type
Herbaceous perennial
Zone
3 to 8
Height
2 to 3 ft.
Spread
2 to 3 ft.
Light
Partial Shade, Full Sun
Moisture Requirement
Dry Soil, Medium Soil
Bloom Color
Purple, Blue
Bloom Time
September, October
Design Considerations
Tolerates a wide range of soils. Tolerates drought after establishment.
Care and Maintenance
Clip back by a fourth in early summer to get a compact plant with more flowers.
Pest and Diseases
No major issues; powdery mildew may occur.
Establishment and Propagation
Plant as a plug or start from seed, no pretreatment needed. Germinates best if planted in the fall.
Commercial Availability
Occasionally available.
Alternative Plant Selections
Smooth Blue Aster, Aromatic Aster
Native Status
Illinois native statewide.
Fall Color
Insignificant
Growth habit
Herbaceous plant that is usually single stemmed, and can bow to one side under the weight of its flowers in the fall.
Number of Caterpillars that Use this as a Host Plant
