Calico Aster - Aster lateriflorum

Attracted Pollinators: Butterflies

Duration: Perennial

Size: 36-48" high; 36" spread

Growing Conditions:

- Light Exposure: full sun or partial shade

- Water Use: low to moderate

- Soil: acidic (>6.5), moderate to moist soil; adapts to most soil types

The calico aster is a large plant native to eastern and central North America. These plants are fairly hardy, capable of withstanding drought and tolerant to a range of soil nutrient content. The thin hairy stems go from green to deep red as the season progresses. The small, purple-white flowers with yellow or red centers attract butterflies for pollination. The calico aster also serves as a butterfly host plant to certain caterpillars.