Hairy Calico Aster

Calico Aster
Symphyotrichum lateriflorum

Limited Quantities

A graceful native woodland aster, Calico Aster provides a spectacular display of delicate flowers late in the growing season when many other wildflowers have finished blooming. Arching stems become covered in hundreds of small white to pale lavender blossoms with bright yellow centres that gradually mature to rich purplish-bronze, creating the beautiful “calico” effect that gives this species its common name.

Blooming from late summer through fall, Calico Aster is an invaluable late-season nectar source for pollinators preparing for winter. Its airy form and masses of flowers bring texture and movement to woodland edges, meadows, and naturalized gardens. Easy to grow and highly adaptable, it thrives in a wide range of conditions while adding exceptional ecological value.

Growing Conditions

Height: 2–4 ft
Spread: 2–3 ft
Light: Full sun to part shade
Soil: Average to moist, well-drained soils; adaptable to clay, loam, and sandy soils
Hardiness: Zone 3–8
Growth Rate: Moderate
Tolerates dry shade once established
Ideal for woodland edges, meadows, pollinator gardens, and naturalized landscapes

Ecological Value

Outstanding late-season nectar and pollen source for native bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
Provides essential fall forage when few native flowers remain in bloom
Seeds provide food for birds through autumn and winter
Supports biodiversity in woodland edge and meadow ecosystems

Larval Host Plant For

Supports the larvae of the Pearl Crescent butterfly (Phyciodes tharos) and several native moth species.

Companion Species

New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)
Blue-stemmed Goldenrod (Solidago caesia)
White Snakeroot (Ageratina altissima)
Zigzag Goldenrod (Solidago flexicaulis)
Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)
Virginia Mountain Mint (Pycnanthemum virginianum)
Big Bluestem (Andropogon gerardii)

Planting to Protect
Restoring to Thrive
Origin Native Plants

3.5 inch Pots