Species
Symphyotrichum oblongifoliumAromatic Aster2 other cultivars
October Skies Aromatic Aster
Symphyotrichum oblongifolium 'October Skies'
The Story
Plant Bio
Aster-like flowers that bloom in late summer and fall; offers extended color to gardens.
Noteworthy for its compact habit and vigorous bloom, ideal for late summer interest.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
18 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate once established
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
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings lightly to maintain soil moisture during propagation.
- Transplant seedlings after the last frost when they are 3 inches tall.
- Water regularly, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged for optimal growth.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering.
Pro Tip
Use a layer of mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead to promote more blooms
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years for vigorous growth
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t fertilize late in the season to prevent weak growth
- Do not disturb roots when plants are flowering
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Pinch | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
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
October Skies Aromatic Aster questions
What zones can October Skies Aromatic Aster grow in?
October Skies Aromatic 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 October Skies Aromatic Aster deer resistant?
Yes — October Skies Aromatic Aster is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does October Skies Aromatic Aster bloom?
October Skies Aromatic 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 October Skies Aromatic Aster need full sun?
October Skies Aromatic Aster does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is October Skies Aromatic Aster drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), October Skies Aromatic 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 October Skies Aromatic 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.