Symphyotrichum novi-belgii  'Wood's Light Blue'
perennialN. America Native

Blue Wood Aster

Symphyotrichum novi-belgii 'Wood's Light Blue'

$13.32
Expertly Curated
Real-Time Pricing
Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

15 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

A genus of North American native asters known for their profuse, daisy-like flowers that provide crucial late-season nectar for pollinators. They typically form bushy clumps of foliage. 'Wood's Blue' is a compact, mounding cultivar prized for its excellent resistance to powdery mildew and its dense display of vibrant lavender-blue flowers with yellow centers.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides a spectacular burst of cool blue color in the late-season garden when many other perennials are fading. Its compact size makes it ideal for border edges, containers, and small spaces.
Practical UsesIt is an excellent, long-lasting cut flower for fall bouquets. Its dense growth habit helps to suppress weeds when planted in masses.
Ecological BenefitsAs a late-blooming native plant, it is a critical nectar source for migrating monarch butterflies, native bees, and other pollinators preparing for winter.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

<1 Gal PotBarerootTrays
In Stock$13.32

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a site with full sun to light shade and good air circulation.
  2. Amend soil with compost for improved drainage and fertility.
  3. Dig a hole as deep and twice as wide as the pot.
  4. Set the plant in the hole so the crown is level with the soil.
  5. Backfill the hole, gently firming the soil around the roots.
  6. Water well after planting and keep moist until established.

Pro Tip

Pinch back the stems by one-third to one-half in late spring to promote a sturdier, more compact plant and prevent flopping.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Provide good air circulation to further discourage mildew.
  • Water during dry spells, especially when budding.
  • Divide every few years to maintain vitality.
  • Leave spent seed heads for winter interest and bird food.

Don't

  • Avoid overhead watering, which can encourage fungal diseases.
  • Do not plant in poorly drained, wet soil.
  • Don't overcrowd plants; give them space to breathe.
  • Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer, which promotes weak, leafy growth.

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Pinch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vibrant autumn border frontPollinator-friendly cottage garden accentCompact mass planting for fall color

Companion Plants

Solidago 'Fireworks' Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' Panicum virgatum Sedum 'Autumn Joy' Echinacea purpurea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Blue Wood Aster questions

What zones can Blue Wood Aster grow in?

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 Blue Wood Aster deer resistant?

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

When does Blue Wood Aster bloom?

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

Does Blue Wood Aster need full sun?

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

Keep exploring

Grow 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.

Download Sow on the App StoreGet Sow on Google Play