blue wood aster Interesting Notes

Aster cordifolius, now Symphotrichum cordifolium, is a woodland edge native with purple to off white daisy-like flower and yellow centers. They have an upright and branched form in cultivation, growing up to 3 feet tall. There is quite a bit of variability in form and leaf shape, especially if other Aster spp. are nearby, but in general, their lower leaves are heart-shaped, or cordate, with upper leaves being ovate. Plant spreads by seed and rhizomotously in a vigorous manner making them an excellent plant en masse.

Common blue wood aster can be found throughout the northern United States in upland meadows and forests. It thrives in part sun to part shade but it can take a wide range of conditions, from dry to moist soils. For best flowering in the fall, ensure the plant receives at least 3 hours of sunlight each day.

Planted beneath our Acers and Physocarpus, this Aster cordifolius is a great naturalizer at the edge of woods or as a filler among Hostas and Astilbes – covering up their late season deterioration with thick blooms and sweeps of greens. The fibrous root systems are effective erosion control on hillsides.

This Aster is no different than many others in its family – providing valuable habitat for Lepidoptera larva and is a nectar sources for bees, wasps, and butterflies. Its leaves are forage for many wild animals including wild turkey and Ruffled Grouse.

Aster cordifolius Growing and Maintenance Tips

Prefers a partially shaded site, but will tolerate sun or shade. Flowering is best with 3 hours of sun or more. Works well in average, dry or moist soil, but does not like to be consistently wet.

Good Substitutions

Penstemon smallii

Aster cordifolius 'Avondale'