Culture

Best grown in evenly moist to wet, well-draining soil in full sun. Pinch one or two times before mid-summer for the best floral display.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Aster is a genus of around 90 species of herbaceous perennials and annuals native mostly to North America, with some species also found in the West Indies, Central and South America, and Asia. This group of plants belongs to the aster family and was originally included in the genus Aster before being separated into their own distinct genus. Some species have been introduced outside of their native ranges and are now considered naturalized or noxious weeds in parts of Europe, Australia, and Japan.

Genus name comes from the Greek symph meaning coming together and trich meaning hair in possible reference to the flower anthers.

The common name michaelmas daisy refers to the feast of St. Michael, which falls on September 29 when many Symphyotrichum species are in bloom.

'Wood's Blue' is a compact, floriferous selection of michaelmas daisy that features a showy display of blue-purple flowers atop sturdy stems. Mature clumps can reach up to 1.25' tall and spread to fill a 1.5' area. The main bloom period begins in late summer and continues into fall. The blooms are attractive to butterflies and other insect pollinators and are a crucial late-season nectar and pollen source. Suitable for use in fresh cut arrangements.

'Wood's Blue' offers improved rust resistance over the species. Deer and rabbits tend to avoid this plant.

Uses

Mixed borders, native gardens, pollinator gardens. Suitable for use in containers.