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Smooth Blue Aster
Symphyotrichum laeve
PerennialSmooth Blue Aster
Symphyotrichum laeve
Tap to flip backGrowing Conditions
Light
Sun – Part Shade
Water
Dry – Medium
Soil
Any
Size
2-4'
Bloom
Blue-Violet, Aug–Oct
Why Grow It
Drought Tolerant
Thrives with little water once established
Late Bloomer
Provides nectar when others have faded
Caterpillar Host
Feeds caterpillars of native moths & butterflies
Did You Know?
The species name 'laeve' means smooth — the leaves are noticeably silky to the touch, unlike most asters which are rough or hairy.
It is a host plant for both the Pearl Crescent and Silvery Checkerspot butterflies.
The smooth, blue-green foliage has a waxy coating that helps the plant conserve water, making it one of the most drought-tolerant asters.
Wildlife Value
🦋
Pearl Crescent Butterfly
Larval host; caterpillars feed on aster leaves
🐝
Bumble Bees
Critical late-season nectar for queen bees
🐦
Tree Swallows
Catch insects attracted to aster blooms
Good Companions
🌾 Little Bluestem
🌼 Early Goldenrod
🌸 Prairie Dropseed
💜 Hoary Vervain
Planting Guide
- Plant in full sun in dry to average well-drained soil.
- Space 18 inches apart; stems are sturdy and upright.
- Drought tolerant; excellent for meadows and borders.
Heads Up
Spreads by Seed
Self-seeds freely; manage seedlings
Plant Details
Made with ♥ by Lu Li