heartleaf aster

Plant Type

Herbaceous Wildflower

Life Cycle

Perennial

Typical Size

1-4 ft. tall
1.5-2 ft. wide

Tolerant of

Drought

Inolerant of

Poorly Drained Soil, Direct Afternoon Sun

Propagation

By seed

Plant Propagation Notes

No pretreatment required for germination.

Plant Planting Notes

Provide up to 2 ft spacing and plant in an area where spreading by seed isn’t a concern.

Plants/Diseases

Mild susceptibility to powdery mildew, leaf spot, or rust infections.

Wildlife Benefits

Nectar/pollen source for pollinating insects, Host plant for butterfly larvae

Leaves

Leaves alternate, cordate with serrate or dentate leaf margins.

Flowers

Numerous heads on a panicle featuring purple lavender ray flowers.

Fruit

Achene.

Toxicity

No known toxicity.

USDA Hardiness Zones

3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Light Exposure

Part Sun/Shade, Full Shade

Soil Moisture

Dry, Medium

Soil Drainage

Well-drained

Native in South Carolina?

Yes

Plant Native Habitat

Rich forests and shaded road banks.

Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)

Secure (G5)

Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)

Not Listed

Distribution Notes

Rare in the coastal plain, uncommon in the sandhills and piedmont, common in the mountains.