Symphyotrichum sagittifolium, commonly known as Arrow-Leaved Aster, is a native perennial found in open woodlands, woodland edges, thickets, and moist prairies throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained, medium to moist soils and prefers full sun to partial shade.
This plant features heart- to arrow-shaped basal leaves and produces clusters of small, daisy-like flowers with pale lavender to white petals and yellow centers that bloom from late summer into fall. As the flowers age, the centers often turn reddish-purple. The plant typically grows 2 to 4 feet tall and provides valuable late-season nectar for pollinators.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Symphyotrichum sagittifolium is an excellent choice for woodland edges, naturalized gardens, and pollinator plantings. It adds late-season interest and supports bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, while its seeds provide food for birds in fall and winter.
Symphyotrichum sagittifolium, commonly known as Arrow-Leaved Aster, is a native perennial found in open woodlands, woodland edges, thickets, and moist prairies throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained, medium to moist soils and prefers full sun to partial shade.
This plant features heart- to arrow-shaped basal leaves and produces clusters of small, daisy-like flowers with pale lavender to white petals and yellow centers that bloom from late summer into fall. As the flowers age, the centers often turn reddish-purple. The plant typically grows 2 to 4 feet tall and provides valuable late-season nectar for pollinators.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Symphyotrichum sagittifolium is an excellent choice for woodland edges, naturalized gardens, and pollinator plantings. It adds late-season interest and supports bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, while its seeds provide food for birds in fall and winter.
Bloom: late summer to fall
Habitats: edges of yards; grassy thickets; rocky glades; rocky woodlands; savannas; small meadows in wooded areas; thinly wooded bluffs; upland woodlands; wooded slopes
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: mesic to dry
Plant type (height): forb (2 to 3.5 feet)
Requirements: partial sun
Soil: clay-loam; loam; rocky-loam
