Species aromatic aster
purple flowers with orange-yellow center, lime-green leaves, stems and brown buds

aromatic aster

Symphyotrichum oblongifolium

Aromatic aster, also known as Symphyotrichum oblongifolium, is a perennial flowering plant native to North America. It features leafy, bluish-green stems and daisy-like blooms in shades of pink and purple. Each bloom is uniquely fragrant and will grow up to 4 feet tall in well-drained soil. Aromatic aster can be used as a border or centerpiece in a garden. This plant also adapts easily to sun or shade, making it a versatile option for any landscape. Whether in a pot or in the ground, its dainty, fragrant blooms will attract birds and butterflies.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Division,Root Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 8

Flowers:

Blue, purple Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Aromatic aster should be watered 1-2 inches once a week depending upon environmental conditions. During the summer months, these plants should get an extra 1-2 inches of water every week to keep them thriving. Additionally, if the ground is dry and temperatures are high these plants will need more water, so it will be necessary to water them more frequently. During the fall and winter months, water should be reduced as these plants will not require as much. Additionally, the plant should be mulched to ensure its roots are kept moist.

sunlight

Aromatic aster (Symphyotrichum oblongifolium) prefers full sun exposure in order to grow and thrive. The plant needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and bloom. Direct sunlight exposure is best during the morning and late afternoon when the sun’s rays are not too strong. These sun loving plants are very capable of handling extreme heat and are more drought-tolerant than most other plants in the aster family.

pruning

Aromatic Aster (Symphyotrichum oblongifolium) plants should be pruned after flowering is finished, usually in late summer. This is done to remove spent blooms and reduce the size of the plant as well as to encourage new growth and longer blooming time. When pruning, it is best to only remove the tips of the stems rather than cutting them all the way back and start with no more than a third of the stems. Additionally, removing the spent blooms often encourages fresh new flowers and continual blooming.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Aromatic aster typically starts flowering in late summer or early fall, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

Aromatic aster typically starts flowering in late summer or early fall, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map