Symphyotrichum firmum [sold as Shining Aster]
Shining Aster

Family:

Genus:

Plant Type:

Growth Forms:

Hardiness:

Deciduous / Evergreen:

Flower Notes:

White, light purple, or light blue daisy-like flower heads with yellow centers that mature to reddish-purple in late summer and fall.

Foliage Notes:

Smooth, glossy, hairless leaves with clasping bases that turn pale yellow or brown in autumn.

Stem Notes:

Stout, smooth, glaucous stems that often turn reddish-purple with sun exposure.

Fruit Notes:

Small achenes attached to tufts of light brown pappus hairs that disperse via wind.

Ultimate Height:

3-6' feet

Ultimate Spread:

2-4' feet

Bloom Times:

Fruiting Times:

Light Requirements:

Soil Water Requirements:

Soil Notes:

Best grown in nutrient-rich, organic, mucky, or clay-loam wet soils that remain consistently moist to wet.

Range:

Northeastern and central North America

Maintenance:

Ecological Functions:

Purdue Plant Doctor