Aster [Symphyotrichum] laeve (Smooth Blue Aster)

Plant Description: A considerably large growing aster, up to 4 feet tall or sometimes larger in garden settings. Flowers are a soft lavender to light blue with branched stems sometimes blue-pruple near the flowers. Similar looking to other blue native asters such as Douglas Aster, but spreads less aggressively than other asters. Though Smooth Blue Aster is native to Oregon, little county data for its specific range is available. Smooth Blue Aster has been recorded in Multnomah and surrounding counties. 

• Height: Up to 4 ft

• Watering needs: Low

• Sun needs: Full-Part sun

• Soil needs: Dry

• Bloom Time: Midsummer-Fall

• Portland Plant List (Backyard Habitat Certification): No

Landscape Use and Ecological Function: An excellent species for dry meadows and xerascaping. Attracts birds, who enjoy the seeds and use the plant for coverage. Flowers attract pollinators, beneficial insects, and butterflies.