perennial

Calico Aster

Symphyotrichum lateriflorum 'Prince'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

28 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate, drought tolerant once established

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Symphyotrichum lateriflorum, commonly known as calico aster, is a bushy, clump-forming perennial native to eastern North America. It features small, daisy-like flowers with white to pale lilac ray florets and yellow center disks that mature to purplish-red. Blooms profusely from late summer to fall. 'Prince' is a compact cultivar noted for its striking, deep purple foliage that provides interest throughout the growing season. It produces a profusion of small, delicate, pale lilac flowers with raspberry-pink centers in the fall, which contrast beautifully with the dark leaves.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides vibrant purple blooms from late summer to fall, attracting pollinators and adding color to gardens.

Drought tolerant once established, requires minimal watering, and helps control weeds with mulch cover.

Supports native pollinators and beneficial insects, promoting biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist.
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in spring.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall.
Prune back after flowering to promote bushiness.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Plant in well-drained soil with full sun for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Deadhead to encourage more flowers
Divide every few years to maintain vigor

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t prune in late fall or winter
Avoid fertilizing with high nitrogen

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Pest Check
Pinch
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Wildflower garden with purple accentsPollinator-friendly borderInformal meadow edge

Companion Plants

Goldenrod Black-eyed Susan Joe Pye Weed Sedum Echinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Calico Aster questions

What zones can Calico Aster grow in?

Calico Aster is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Calico Aster deer resistant?

Yes — Calico Aster is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Calico Aster bloom?

Calico Aster typically blooms in late summer to fall through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Calico Aster need full sun?

Calico Aster does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Calico Aster drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Calico Aster handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.