Illinois Native Plant Guide

Smooth Blue Aster
Aster laevis

Preferred Water Depth and Inundation Tolerance

Can tolerate wet-mesic conditions for short durations and seasonal inundation. Species prefers dry upland areas.

Wildlife Value

Attracts orange sulphur butterflies.

Application/Zone

Used to slow stormwater runoff and provide upland slope buffer stabilization.

Availability, Establishment, and Maintenance

• Easily propagated from seed. No germination treatments are needed.
• Seeds can be stored dry.
• Cuttings may be rooted.

Smooth Blue Aster
Aster laevis

Mature Height
3-5 feet

Plant Type
Perennial herb

Indicator Status
[Upland]

pH
5-6.5

Nutrient Load Tolerance
Low

Salt Tolerance
Low

Siltation Tolerance
Low to moderate

Flowering Color and Time
Lavender-blue
August to October

Light Preference
Partial to full sun

Seeding Rate
.02 - .125 lbs/acre

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