Symphyotrichum oblongifolium sp. (Fall Aster)

If you are creating a wildlife habitat, planting a Fall Aster is a must. This tough perennial may be easily overlooked until the fall when it provides an explosion of bright purple blooms. It is truly a showstopper then. It is adaptable and not fussy about soil, and looks best planted in groupings or surrounded by other perennials. Providing late season nectar for pollinators, Fall Aster is a valuable addition to any pollinator garden.   AT A GLANCE Texas native Yes Water use Low Sun exposure Sun to part shade Bloom color Purple Bloom time Fall Mature height 2-3 ft Mature spread 2-3 ft Attracts Birds, butterflies, bees Notes Native bee friendly. Attracts beneficial insects.   DISTRIBUTION MAPS  USDA MAP BONAP MAP  Present in state  Present in county and native  Native to North America, but adventive & escaped in state           Not present in state  Present and rare, native in county  Previously present, now extinct  Questionable presence (cross-hatched, regardless of color)