Also known as Aster Lisse · Delicate Michaelmas Daisy · Glaucous Aster
Smooth Blue Aster (Symphyotrichum laeve) is a North American native perennial with charming blue-violet daisy-like flowers, blooming in late summer to fall. It provides l
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Thrives in full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily) but can tolerate light afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates.
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers consistent moisture, but tolerates some dryness once established. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Well-drained, Loamy, Sandy, Clay
50% intensity
Cold Hardy
25% intensity
Well-suited for temperate climates, with good tolerance to freezing temperatures. Protect from extreme heat if possible.
Low
25% intensity
Generally requires minimal fertilization. A light application in spring is usually sufficient. Over-fertilizing can be detrimental.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently, especially during dry spells. Aim for evenly moist soil. Reduce watering in fall as the plant enters dormancy.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage and avoid waterlogged conditions. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Deadhead spent blooms to encourage reblooming and maintain a tidy appearance. Cut back the plant to the ground in late fall or early spring to remove dead foliage and prevent disease.
This tidies the garden over winter and promotes vigorous new growth in the next season.
Easily propagated from seed sown in fall or early spring, or through division of established clumps in early spring. Seedlings may take a year or two to reach flowering size.
Division is a reliable method to maintain desirable traits and rejuvenate older plants.
Mature plants generally do not require frequent repotting and prefer to be undisturbed once established. If necessary, typically every 3-5 years, divide and repot in early spring.
Ensure the new location has adequate space and well-draining soil to accommodate its growth.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Smooth Blue Aster (Symphyotrichum laeve)
Where Smooth Blue Aster (Symphyotrichum laeve) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Symphyotrichum |
| Species | Symphyotrichum laeve |
Similar in genus Symphyotrichum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
