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

spreading aster

Symphyotrichum patens

Spreading aster (Symphyotrichum patens) is a perennial wildflower native to eastern North America. Growing up to two feet tall, its daisy-like flowers boast bright purplish-blue petals with yellow centers and can bloom from summer through fall. This particular aster was historically used for medicinal purposes by North American Indigenous peoples for ailments such as colds, fever, wounds, and coughs. Spreading aster can easily spread in garden beds and are tolerant of soil with moderate moisture. They also prefer full to part sun, making them an easy flower to incorporate into any outdoor landscape.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Division,Root Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation,Stem Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

Blue to violet rays with yellow centers Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Water spreading aster (Symphyotrichum patens) about 1 to 2 inches per week during the growing season (spring through fall). In very dry conditions, the soil should be kept moist but not soggy, and the plants should never be left to dry out completely. Water the plants early in the morning and avoid getting the foliage wet, as this can cause fungal problems. In wet climates, water less in the winter to allow the soil to dry out.

sunlight

Spreading Aster requires full sun for the best flowering, meaning 5 or more hours of direct sunlight per day. However, this species can also tolerate periods of partial shade. It is tolerant of hot summer temperatures but will require more water on dry days. For optimal growth, spreading aster should be planted in spring or early summer in order to give it enough time to develop a strong root system, establish itself, and start flowering. During the summer months, spreading aster will require regular watering to maintain moisture in the soil and prevent leaf wilting and browning.

pruning

When to Prune: Spreading aster should be pruned in late winter or early spring. How Much to Prune: Spreading aster should be pruned back by no more than 1-third of the plant's height. This will help ensure that the plant remains healthy and does not become overgrown.

Season

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

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

Starts Flowering

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

Hardiness Map