ASTER SMOOTH BLUE Symphyotrichum laeve
Symphyotrichum laeve (smooth blue aster, smooth aster, smooth-leaved aster, glaucous Michaelmas-daisy or glaucous aster) is a flowering plant native to Canada and the United States.
Smooth aster is 20 to 70 cm (8 to 28 inches) tall. The flower heads are arranged in clusters (panicles), pale to dark blue or purple petals. The whole flowerhead measures 1⁄2 to 1 inch (1.3 to 2.5 cm) across.
Symphyotrichum laeve is found throughout North America, in gardens, and naturally occurring in fields, open woods and along roadsides. It grows in rocky or dry soil in full sun.
Symphyotrichum laeve blooms in late summer and early fall. It is pollinated by many native bees and attracts butterflies. It is a larval host for the pearly crescent butterfly (Phyciodes tharos).
Type: Hardy perennial
Height: 24", 60 cm
Location: Sun or part
Hardiness zones: 3-9
Seeds per pack: 30
Note: Ornamental use only. May be poisonous.
Germination: Obtain a planting container that has holes in the bottom for excess water to drain. Place the seeds on the surface of your growing medium, and water. Place the container at room temperature for them to germinate. Be sure to keep the soil moist during this entire germination period.
