Symphyotrichum laevis ‘Bluebird’ – Smooth Aster

General Information: Smooth Aster is one of the earliest Asters to bloom. Beginning in September and lasting through November, the plant’s flowers attract many Butterflies. Pale blue/purple composite flowers adorn smooth purplish stalks that are clasped by green lance-shaped leaves. ‘Bluebird’ is a striking, easy-to-grow, tall fall variety. An abundance of violet-blue blossom clusters appear at about the same time as the fall foliage begins to change in northern climates. This native cultivar is virtually pest-free. ‘Bluebird’ works well in a perennial border or as a mass planting. The plant has shallow roots and produces rhizomes that spread slowly over time. They form small colonies, dense with foliage, and produce flowers once they reach 3-4 feet tall. Leaves and stems are smooth to the touch, hence this plant’s name. Smooth Asters are a host for the Pearl Crescent Butterfly, and a late-season nectar source for many other pollinators.

Cultivation Details: Blooms in late summer to fall. Consider pairing with Anise-Scented Goldenrod (Solidago odora), US Native grasses, or some of our other Aster species. A beautiful choice for rewilding, filling in tough sites, planting along roadways or paths, attracting pollinators, or simply as a garden specimen.

Growing Requirements: Prefers full sun. Commonly found in rocky and dry soils. Also thrives in medium moist soil. Thrives in most soil types.

Fun Facts: According to the Mt. Cuba Center, this cultivar was originally discovered as a seedling in Guilford, Connecticut in 1988. This selection entered the nursery trade in 1994. Currently classified botanically as Symphyotrichum lavae, this plant was formerly classified as Aster laevis. The Aster genus is still commonly used in the nursery trade, despite having been updated to Symphyotrichum in 1994. This variety’s full botanical name is Symphyotrichum lavae var. laevis. There are many subspecies of this plant which occupy different regions of North America, owing to the plant’s successful spread across the continent.