Aromatic Aster: The Late-Blooming, Drought-Tough Perennial Pollinators Love

Among the dozens of asters in my garden — shade lovers, sun worshippers, rain-garden staples — aromatic aster (Symphyotrichum oblongifolium) ranks in the top three. Why? It thrives in terrible soil, blooms relentlessly from October through hard frosts, and provides critical late-season nectar for migrating and overwintering insects. Low maintenance doesn't begin to cover it.

Quick Profile

• Botanical name: Symphyotrichum oblongifolium
• Common name: Aromatic aster
• Origin: Eastern U.S.
• Hardiness: -40°F (zones 3–9)
• Water: Dry to medium soil
• Light: Full sun to 25% shade
• Size: 1–2 ft tall, 2–3 ft wide; slowly spreading shrubby habit
• Benefits: Mid-to-late fall bloom over weeks; butterfly magnet; extremely drought-tolerant; virtually carefree
• Bloom: Violet-blue flowers from October on
• Plant: Spring to fall

Species vs. Cultivar 'October Skies'

The straight species is wonderful, but 'October Skies' offers a tighter, rounder mound and slightly bluer flowers. Both thrive in dry clay, rocky soil, and neglect. May self-sow gently in open ground but isn't invasive.

Design Uses

• Late-season savior: Plants among perennials that have gone dormant; its fresh foliage and flowers "pick up the slack."
• Shrub border: Mass for a low, flowering hedge.
• Front-of-border: Neat habit suits formal designs.

Planting Notes

Give it hot sun and lean, dry soil — it will thank you. Once established, it's among the most carefree asters. More sun = more flowers, but it tolerates fair shade. Late-season insects (monarchs, bees, migrating butterflies) flock to it as they finish journeys or prepare for winter.