Asteraceae

eastern aromatic aster

Symphyotrichum oblongifolium

Synonyms

Aster oblongifolius
Lasallea oblongifolia
Virgulus oblongifolius

Other Common Names

shale-barren aster

Plant Type

Herbaceous Wildflower

Life Cycle

Perennial

Typical Size

1-3 ft. tall
1-3 ft. wide

Tolerant of

Deer, Drought

Inolerant of

Poorly Drained Soil

Propagation

By seed

Plant Propagation Notes

Cold moist stratify seed for 30-60 days.

Plants/Diseases

No significant pest or disease problems, but can be susceptible to powdery mildew and aster wilt.

Wildlife Benefits

Nectar/pollen source for pollinating insects

Leaves

Leaves simple and alternate, aromatic when crushed.

Flowers

Purple/lavender ray flowers, yellow disc flowers.

Fruit

Achene.

Toxicity

No known toxicity.

Symphyotrichum oblongifolium

USDA Hardiness Zones

3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Light Exposure

Full Sun

Soil Moisture

Dry, Medium

Soil Drainage

Well-drained

Soil pH

Neutral (6.0-8.0), Basic (greater than 8.0)

Native in South Carolina?

No

Closest States Where Native

Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina

Plant Native Habitat

Rock outcrops, dry woodlands, and prairies over limestone and calcareous soils.

Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)

Secure (G5)

Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)

Not Listed

Distribution Notes

Absent from the mountains, piedmont, and coastal plain.