Symphyotrichum cordifolium, syn. Aster cordifolius (common names blue wood aster, blue wood-aster or heartleaf aster), is native to eastern North America. It can be readily found along forest edges and in open areas, as well in urban areas and in cultivation. The flowers are typically bluish and emerge in August and persist into October.

Symphyotrichum cordifolium is present in a wide area, from Manitoba in the north west, east to Nova Scotia and Maine, south to Georgia and Alabama and west to Oklahoma.

Blue wood-aster is a tough plant which can cope with neglect. It is particularly valued for supplying late summer, autumn and even winter flower color. Still widely referenced under its former name Aster cordifolius particularly in the British Isles.

Type: Hardy perennial

Hardiness zones: 3-9

Height: 36", 3 feet, 90 cm

Location: Sun or part

Seeds per pack: 20

Note: Ornamental use only. May be poisonous.

Germination: Start these seeds right away to preserve viability, no matter the time of year. These seeds require a period of cold. Sow the seeds just under the surface of a sterile seed-start mix, and water in. Then cover them with plastic and place in a fridge for 5-6 weeks. Be sure they stay moist. After the cold stratification period they are then brought back to room temperature for them to germinate. If possible, the best location for sowing in March, April and May, is in cold frame or a cold greenhouse where they will receive the cold period and fluctuating temperatures naturally.