Calico Aster
Calico Aster blooms for an extended period, often right up to the first frost. Delicate white flowers with colorful maroon and yellow centers cover the stems, which grow out horiontally from the main stalk. This medium-sized aster is typically around 3’ high…
| Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
|---|---|
| Soil Moisture | Dry, Medium |
| Sun Exposure | Partial, Shade |
| Height | 2' - 3' |
| Bloom Color | White |
| Bloom Time | Sep, Oct |
| Spacing | 1' |
| Hardiness Zones | 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 |
| Root Type | Fibrous |
| Benefits | Birds, Pollinators, Host Plant |
Calico Aster (Aster lateriflorus) blooms for an extended period, often right up to the first frost. Delicate white flowers with colorful maroon and yellow centers cover the stems, which grow out horiontally from the main stalk. This medium-sized aster is typically around 3’ high, with small flowers about 1/3" across. It has a more airy, sparse appearance in the shade. In a sunny setting the flowers grow more densely along stems. Pinching back the stems early in the growing season will encourage branching, and a more dense appearance with more flowers. This adaptable aster is easy to grow in average to dry well-drained soils and it tolerates dry conditions very well. A beautiful addition to woodland edges, sunny rock gardens or any garden in partial shade for a burst of late season color.
Calico Aster is a larval host plant for several butterflies and moths including Harris's Checkerspot and Pearl Crescent butterflies.
