photo of Symphyotrichum lateriflorum

Symphyotrichum lateriflorum

Calico Aster

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Calico Aster features white flowers, which bloom September-October. The nectar offers a food source for native bees. Calico Aster attracts...

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Description:

Calico Aster features white flowers, which bloom September-October. The nectar offers a food source for native bees. Calico Aster attracts beneficial insects, which prey upon garden pest insects in your yard. It is a host plant for butterfly larvae (caterpillars) of the Pearl Crescent (Phyciodes tharos) butterfly. Use Calico Aster in borders, planted in groups for hedges or screens, or along walkways in your yard.

Plant Details:

Plant Type: Flower, Perennial

New Jersey Native: Yes

Bloom Times: Late Summer to Fall

Bloom Colors: White

Deer Resistance: None

Attracts Pollinators and Wildlife: Butterflies

Salt Tolerance: Low to None

Hardiness Zone: 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b

Physiographic Region: All Regions in NJ

Grows in Special Ecoregions: Pinelands

Soil Characteristics

Soil Type: Loam, Organic, Sandy

Soil Moisture: Dry

Soil pH: Slightly Acidic, Neutral, Slightly Alkaline

Light Needs of Plant

Optimal Light: Full Sun

Light Range: Full Sun

Water Needs of Plant

Soil Moisture: Dry

Drought Tolerance: Medium

Size and Growth Rate

Height: 2 - 3 ft

Spread: 2 - 3 ft

Growth Rate: Medium