Calico Aster (Symphyotrichum lateriflorus) – A Late-Season Pollinator Magnet
Calico Aster (Symphyotrichum lateriflorus) is a charming native perennial that blooms in the final act of the growing season. Common across eastern North America, it thrives in woodland edges, meadows, roadsides, and other semi-shaded habitats. This small-flowered aster is an essential part of the native fall landscape, offering vital nectar and pollen to late-season pollinators.
Calico Aster Plant Description:
Calico Aster typically reaches 1 to 3 feet in height. Its wiry, dark stems are lined with small, alternate leaves and lateral flower branches, giving the plant a delicate, cascading appearance. The white ray flowers are tiny, usually less than half an inch wide, and are held in loose sprays. Their yellow centers mature to shades of rose, purple, or maroon—hence the name “calico,” like a patchwork of color.
Ecological Value:
This species is a favorite among native bees, butterflies, and wasps. Blooming from late August through October, Symphyotrichum lateriflorus helps bridge the gap between summer and frost. Its value is especially high in pollinator gardens and ecological restoration projects, where it offers a reliable food source when few other plants are blooming.
Growing Conditions:
Calico Aster is adaptable. It prefers part sun to light shade and grows well in average to dry soils. It’s a hardy and resilient plant that spreads by seed and rhizomes, naturalizing gently. Deer-resistant and low-maintenance, it’s an excellent addition to wildflower meadows, woodland gardens, and native plant borders.
Planting Tip:
To prevent flopping and encourage bushier growth, consider cutting back by one-third in early summer. This will delay flowering slightly but result in a sturdier, more floriferous plant. Often you may find the rabbits in your neighborhood will do the first pruning for you. But this won’t be a fatal browsing.
Calico Aster is a must-have for late-season beauty and ecological impact. Add it to your native garden and support biodiversity well into autumn.
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