Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Prefers moist, rich soils. Good air circulation helps reduce incidence of foliar diseases. Pinching back stems several times before mid-July will help control plant height, promote bushiness and perhaps obviate the need for staking. Easily grown from seed and often self-seeds in the garden. Plants may be cut to the ground after flowering to prevent any unwanted self-seeding and/or if foliage has become unsightly.
Blue wood aster or heart-leaved aster is a Missouri native perennial that typically occurs in rich, dry or moist woodlands, bluff bases, stream banks and moist ledges throughout the state (Steyermark). It is a stout, leafy plant typically growing on smooth, branched, upright stems to 2-5’ tall. Leaves are sharply-toothed, with the lower ones being heart-shaped (to 5” long) and the upper ones being smaller and more ovate. Clusters of small, daisy-like asters (to 3/4” diameter) with pale blue to rich blue rays and yellow centers bloom, often profusely, from late summer to early fall. Flowers are attractive to butterflies.
No serious insect or disease problems. Some susceptibility to powdery mildew. Aster wilt can also be an occasional problem, particularly if plants are grown in poorly-drained clay soils. Taller plants may require staking or other support. Foliage tends to decline by late summer.
Open shade gardens, native plant gardens, cottage gardens or butterfly gardens.
Thank You!
The Garden wouldn't be the Garden without our Members, Donors and Volunteers.
Info for
Main Navigation
Quick Links
Missouri Botanical Garden
4344 Shaw Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63110(314) 577-5100 hours and admission
Butterfly House
Faust Park, 15193 Olive Blvd. Chesterfield, MO 63017(636) 530-0076 hours and admission
Shaw Nature Reserve
Hwy. 100 & I-44 Gray Summit, MO 63039(636) 451-3512 hours and admission