Symphyotrichum oblongifolium, commonly known as Aromatic Aster, is a native perennial found in dry prairies, rocky slopes, and open woodlands throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained soils and full sun, making it especially well-suited for drought-tolerant gardens and tough sites.
This compact, bushy plant features narrow, oblong, bluish-green leaves that emit a pleasant fragrance when crushed—hence the name "aromatic." From late summer into fall, it produces abundant daisy-like flowers with violet to lavender petals and golden yellow centers. Aromatic Aster typically grows 1 to 2 feet tall and forms tidy mounds that add structure and color to late-season landscapes.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Symphyotrichum oblongifolium is an excellent choice for pollinator gardens, native borders, and low-maintenance plantings. It provides critical late-season nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators while offering fall beauty and excellent resilience in dry or rocky soils.
Symphyotrichum oblongifolium, commonly known as Aromatic Aster, is a native perennial found in dry prairies, rocky slopes, and open woodlands throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained soils and full sun, making it especially well-suited for drought-tolerant gardens and tough sites.
This compact, bushy plant features narrow, oblong, bluish-green leaves that emit a pleasant fragrance when crushed—hence the name "aromatic." From late summer into fall, it produces abundant daisy-like flowers with violet to lavender petals and golden yellow centers. Aromatic Aster typically grows 1 to 2 feet tall and forms tidy mounds that add structure and color to late-season landscapes.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Symphyotrichum oblongifolium is an excellent choice for pollinator gardens, native borders, and low-maintenance plantings. It provides critical late-season nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators while offering fall beauty and excellent resilience in dry or rocky soils.
Bloom: fall
Habitats: dolomite prairies; gravelly hill prairies; limestone glades; mesic to dry gravel prairies; rocky bluffs along major rivers
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: dry (although an average moisture is tolerated if the site is well-drained)
Plant type (height): forb (1 to 2 feet)
Requirements: full sun
Soil: poor, rocky soil with open terrain
