General Culture:
Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soil in full sun. Does well in sandy or clay soils. Generally tolerates poor soils and drought.
Noteworthy Characteristics:
Aromatic aster is a Missouri native plant that typically occurs on limestone glades, slopes, prairies and dry open ground. A bushy, stiff, compact, low-growing plant with hairy stems. Typically grows 1-2' (infrequently to 3') tall and features small, daisy-like flowers (1" across) with violet blue rays and yellow center disks. Rigid, toothless, oblong, blue-green leaves (to 4" long) are, as the common name suggests, fragrant when crushed. Good cut flower. Attractive to butterflies.
Problems: Click for detailed list of pests and problems.
No serious insect or disease problems. Some susceptibility to mildew. Some support may be needed for taller plants since stems may tend to splay apart in autumn from the weight of the bloom.
Uses:
Provides late bloom for the border, wildflower garden or native plant garden, meadow or prairie.
© Missouri Botanical
Garden, 2001-2009
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