Growing Conditions: Part sun to part shade in dry to medium soil
Size: Height 3-5 ft, Spread 1-2 ft
Blooms: September to October
Landscape Use: Shade garden, woodland area. Tip – Prune back by ½ to ⅓ in mid-spring to reduce height and increase bloom.
Habitat Value: Symphyotrichum species support host insects and pollinators, including the Aster flowerhead caterpillar (host), the Aster-head phaneta moth (host), the blackberry looper moth (host), sweat bees, and flower flies (Syrphidae).
Pests & Diseases: Deer can sometimes cause damage.
Mature Seed Color: Tan/dark yellow
Use a brown bag to collect seeds from October to November when the seed heads have turned brown and the pappus (tiny hairs in the shape of a parachute that aid in wind dispersal) is fluffy. Clip seed heads and place upside down in the paper bag.
Collection & Cleaning Tips: Pinch pappus between thumb and index fingers and pull to release seeds from flower bract material. Remove as much pappus as possible. Use seed cleaning screens to separate seeds from plant material.
Store clean, dry seeds in a refrigerator (40°F) in a sealed glassine envelope.
Germination Requirements: These seeds need a winter or cold period to germinate — a minimum of 30-60 days exposed to temperatures in the range of 40°F and below. Plant in moist soil. Sow outdoors in pots November through February.
