Asteraceae
clasping aster
Symphyotrichum patens
Synonyms
Symphyotrichum patens var. patens
Aster patens
Aster patens var. patens
Virgulus patens var. patens
Other Common Names
late purple aster, late blue aster, skydrop aster
Plant Type
Herbaceous Wildflower
Life Cycle
Perennial
Typical Size
2-3 ft. tall
1.5-2 ft. wide
Tolerant of
Drought
Inolerant of
Poorly Drained Soil
Propagation
By seed
Plant Propagation Notes
Seed requires sunlight to germinate. Surface sowing is recommended.
Plant Planting Notes
Provide 2 ft spacing.
Plants/Diseases
Low susceptibility to powdery mildew or aster wilt.
Wildlife Benefits
Nectar/pollen source for pollinating insects
Leaves
Leaves alternate, lanceolate to oblong with crenate margins; clasping the stem and hairy.
Flowers
Solitary heads with purple ray flowers and yellow disc flowers.
Fruit
Achene.
Toxicity
No known toxicity.
USDA Hardiness Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Light Exposure
Full Sun, Part Sun/Shade
Soil Moisture
Dry
Soil Drainage
Well-drained
Native in South Carolina?
Yes
Plant Native Habitat
Roadsides, woodlands, longleaf pine sandhills, and other dry sandy and open habitats.
Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)
Secure (G5)
Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)
Not Listed
Distribution Notes
Uncommon in the South Carolina coastal plain. Common in the sandhills, piedmont, and mountains.