Shining Aster

Symphyotrichum firmum

Shining Aster is a tall, robust perennial wildflower that thrives in moist - wet habitats. This species produces clusters of lavender to pale purple flowers with yellow centers, blooming from late summer into fall, providing a late-season nectar source for pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Its upright stems and lance-shaped leaves add vertical interest to moist meadows, marshes, and streambanks. Shining Aster is well-suited for rain gardens, wetland restorations, and naturalized areas, where it contributes to biodiversity and soil stabilization.
 
Associates:
Try planting this species with Blue Vervain (Verbena hastata), Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata), and Joe-Pye Weed (Eutrochium spp.) in similar wetland environments.
 
Native Status in Ontario: Native
 
Find more information here.
 
Photo Credit: Zack Harris