Symphyotrichum oblongifolium ‘October Skies’ (Aromatic Aster)

Low-growing, but extremely showy, Symphyotrichum oblongifolium ‘October Skies’ (Aromatic Aster) is a compact perennial forming a mound of radiant color from late summer to fall with its profuse, rich sky-blue daisy-like flowers adorned with deep yellow centers. The aromatic, bushy, rich blue-green foliage creates a lovely backdrop to these charming flowers. Native to North America, Aromatic Aster is easy to grow, long-lived, brings cheerful fall color, and is a great source of nectar for butterflies.

• Grows up to 18-24 in. tall (45-60 cm) and 20-24 in. wide (50-60 cm). Aromatic Aster self-sows where happy.
• Thrives in full sun in average, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils. Sandy or clay soils are welcomed. Provide good air circulation to avoid foliage diseases such as powdery mildew. Drought, salt, and poor soil tolerant.
• Vital ingredient of late summer and fall beds and borders, cottage gardens, prairies and meadows, or butterfly gardens. Perfect for containers and small gardens. Valued for the excellent quality of its cut flowers.
• Asters are a must if you are trying to attract birds or butterflies!
• No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for powdery mildew. Deer and rabbit resistant.
• Pinch back stems before midsummer to promote bushiness, produce a greater number of flowers and control the plant height (to avoid flopping). After it goes dormant, cut back to the basal rosette in late fall, or early winter.
• Cutting back after flowering will prevent undesired self-seeding.