Plant of the week 14: Aromatic Aster (Symphyotrichum oblongifolium)

            Aromatic Aster is one of the last native plants to bloom but it is well worth the wait. This perennial will begin flowering in September, lasting through October and into November (depending on where you live). In the Washington Metro area, it will reliably bloom in the beginning of November. Flowers are daisy-like with up to 25-30 rays that are shades of light purple to lavender. The center of the flowers is bright yellow.

            The stems of Aromatic Aster are quite stiff, and they will branch out slowly to create a mounded almost shrub-like appearance. When in full bloom, the flowers will completely cover the entire plant creating a stunning show. This is one reason that Aromatic Aster (and certain other Asters) are excellent native alternatives to Mums.

            Contrary to popular belief, the common name is not attributed to the flowers, which have no scent. It is the leaves which are strongly fragrant when broken or rubbed. These leaves can host up to 109 species of caterpillars. The flowers provide pollen and nectar for a variety of pollinators while birds can eat the seeds as a food source.

           Aromatic Aster prefers well drained soils in full sun, so it is a perfect component of a pollinator garden. It also is well suited in cottage gardens and meadows. In the wild, Aromatic Aster is not very common around the DMV but can found at the Great Falls overlook in Maryland. Many native nurseries carry Aromatic Aster, especially two cultivars: ‘Raydon’s Favorite’ and ‘October Skies’.