Aster laevis (Smooth Aster)

Smooth aster is a plant that’s nice to have around in fall. When many flowers are winding down, it steps in with clean violet blooms that light up the garden and bring in butterflies and bees when they need food most.   The plant spreads gently and sends up tall, sturdy stems topped with inch-wide violet flowers. The foliage stays smooth and tidy, giving it a clean look even as the season cools. It’s a natural fit for pollinator gardens, prairie-style plantings, and mixed borders—and it also makes a lovely cut flower for late-season bouquets.   We always encourage planting pollinator plants that bloom at different times of year. Smooth aster is a perfect way to make sure your garden is still feeding pollinators in fall. WHY GARDENERS LOVE IT Late fall blooms Violet flowers Attracts butterflies and bees Strong, upright stems Easy to grow Great cut flower HOW IT GROWS Plant type: Herbaceous perennial Sun: Full sun to light shade Soil: Average, well-drained soil Wate