Species PlantsAromatic Aster

Aromatic Aster

Symphyotrichum oblongifolium

CommonPlant
Illustration of Aromatic Aster (Symphyotrichum oblongifolium)

Aromatic Aster is a mounding native wildflower of dry prairies and rocky glades with strongly aromatic leaves and abundant lavender-blue flowers in fall. It is one of the last wildflowers to bloom before frost and is exceptionally valuable for late-season pollinators. It is a tough, drought-tolerant species that thrives in poor, rocky soils.

Habitat
Dry rocky glades, prairies, and open slopes in eastern and central North America
Diet
Critical late-season nectar for native bees and migrating butterflies
How common
Common

Best time to see a Aromatic Aster

The best time to see a Aromatic Aster is September–October, when about 71% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 1,585 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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