Symphyotrichum adnatum

Common Names

Scaleleaf Aster, Clasping Aster

Summary

Scale-leaf aster is a long-lived perennial native to the southeastern United States and the Bahamas. It grows 30–120 cm tall with erect to sprawling stems and scale-like leaves that clasp the stems. Its flowers display lavender ray florets and yellow disk florets, blooming from October to December, and the fruits are tan to brown cypselae. It occurs in sandy or clayey soils, including sandhills and open pine flatwoods in pine-dominated habitats.

For cultivation, it prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soils; it is drought-tolerant once established and tolerates moisture regimes from not wet but not extremely dry to somewhat long dry periods. Not tolerant of inundation by salty water, though some tolerance to salty wind and avoidance of direct salt spray. It propagates by seed and is well-suited for wildflower gardens, meadows, and natural landscapes or habitat restoration, where it attracts native bees and other pollinators. It is described as easy to care for and adaptable, a sun-loving wildflower that can sprawl in suitable settings.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

12-30 inches

Spread

12-24 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 8a-11a

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally Full Sun to Partial Shade.

Soil Type

Moist, well-drained sandy or calcareous soils

Soil Drainage

Moist but well-drained

Soil pH

Adaptable to a wide range of soil pH

Bloom Color

Lavender to violet (periwinkle) blooms, with a bright yellow center.

Bloom Time

Fall

Foliage Color

Green, Yellowish green

Fall Foliage Color

Yellowish green, Green

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Moderate

Seasons of Interest

Fall and Winter

Propagation Methods

Seeds and Cuttings

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees and butterflies