Species
Symphyotrichum lateriflorumCalico Aster1 other cultivar
Lady in Black Calico Aster
Symphyotrichum lateriflorum 'Lady in Black'
The Story
Plant Bio
A native perennial aster cultivar noted for its dark purple-black foliage and wiry, arching, dark stems. In late summer to fall, it is covered in a profusion of tiny, daisy-like flowers with white rays and raspberry-pink to purplish centers.
This cultivar stands out due to its striking dark purple to nearly black leaves, which provide excellent contrast in the garden.
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
Medium
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Eastern North America (species)
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
- Water consistently during first growing season to establish strong roots.
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
- Prune dead or damaged stems in late winter to promote new growth.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring to rejuvenate.
Pro Tip
Ensure good air circulation to prevent powdery mildew and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
- Apply mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
Don't
- Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
- Neglect pruning, leading to leggy growth
- Use chemical pesticides excessively
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Pinch | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Lady in Black Calico Aster questions
What zones can Lady in Black Calico Aster grow in?
Lady in Black 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 Lady in Black Calico Aster deer resistant?
Yes — Lady in Black Calico Aster is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Lady in Black Calico Aster bloom?
Lady in Black 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 Lady in Black Calico Aster need full sun?
Lady in Black Calico Aster does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Lady in Black Calico Aster drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Lady in Black Calico Aster handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Symphyotrichum to compare
New England Aster Harringtons Pink
Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 'Harringtons Pink'
Eastern Silver Aster
Symphyotrichum concolor
New Mexico Aster My Antonia
Symphyotrichum fendleri 'My Antonia'
Purple Dome New England Aster
Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 'Purple Dome'
New England Aster
Symphyotrichum novae-angliae '05-196-10'
Fanny aster
Symphyotrichum oblongifolium 'Fanny'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Lady in Black Calico 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.