Symphyotrichum georgianum

Common Names

Georgia Aster

Summary

Georgia Aster, a rhizomatous perennial wildflower native to the southeastern United States (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina), forms colonies up to about 1 meter tall and blooms in October to November. Flower heads measure about 4–6 cm across with bright purple ray florets and white to lavender disk florets that darken with age, and the plant thrives in dry, rocky woodlands, woodland borders, roadsides, and powerline rights‑of‑way, particularly in areas historically prone to fire. It attracts bees and butterflies and often occurs as disjunct populations, highlighting conservation concerns across its range.

For cultivation, it prefers full sun and well‑drained soils and can be propagated by rhizome division in early spring; seeds are typically self‑sterile and require cross‑pollination for viable seed. It is considered rare or threatened in parts of its range, with a global status of G3, and major threats include habitat loss and wildfire suppression. Habitat management such as prescribed fire or winter mowing helps maintain sunny openings; the plant is valued in pollinator gardens and native plantings for its late‑season blooms.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

1-3 feet

Spread

1-3 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 3-9

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full sun to partial shade.

Soil Type

Well-drained soils, preferably sandy to rocky.

Soil Drainage

Dry, well-drained soil

Soil pH

Acidic soil pH

Bloom Color

Purple

Bloom Time

Fall (October–November)

Foliage Color

Dark green

Fall Foliage Color

Tan

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Fast

Seasons of Interest

Fall and Winter

Propagation Methods

Seeds and Division

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees and butterflies