The Story
Plant Bio
This clump-forming perennial features heart-shaped leaves and produces clouds of small, lavender-blue, daisy-like flowers with yellow centers.
A hybrid between Symphyotrichum cordifolium and S. novi-belgii, 'Little Carlow' is prized for its mildew resistance, sturdy non-flopping stems, and prolific bloom.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Bloom period
Early fall
In flower about 1 month of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings lightly to maintain moisture, avoiding overwatering.
- Transplant seedlings when they have developed strong roots, typically after 4-6 weeks.
- Space plants 12-18 inches apart to ensure proper air circulation.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during early growth stages.
Pro Tip
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Prune dead or damaged stems to encourage bushier growth
- Apply mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
- Fertilize in early spring for optimal flowering
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don't disturb roots during the growing season
- Refrain from fertilizing late in the season to avoid weak new growth
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pinch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Little Carlow Blue Wood Aster questions
What zones can Little Carlow Blue Wood Aster grow in?
Little Carlow Blue Wood 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 Little Carlow Blue Wood Aster deer resistant?
Yes — Little Carlow Blue Wood Aster is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Little Carlow Blue Wood Aster bloom?
Little Carlow Blue Wood Aster typically blooms in early fall through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Little Carlow Blue Wood Aster need full sun?
Little Carlow Blue Wood Aster does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Aster to compare
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Aster novae-angliae 'Lou Williams'
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Aster novae-angliae 'Violetta'
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Aster novae-angliae 'Rosa Sieger'
Crimson Brocade New England Aster
Aster x hybrida 'Crimson Brocade'
Purple Dome New England Aster
Aster novae-angliae 'Purple Dome'
New England Aster
Aster novae-angliae
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Little Carlow Blue Wood Aster with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.