Calico Aster - Symphyotrichum lateriforum

Phonetic: sim-fy-oh-TRY-kum la-ter-uh-FLOR-um

Loose clusters of multiple flowering heads are found concentrated mainly on one side of the widely spreading branches of Calico Aster. Like most Asters, it attracts a variety of insects, but it has shorter nectar tubes. The species gets its common name from the variety of colors of its blossoms' central disks. Plants host caterpillars of the Pearl Crescent and Checkerspot Butterflies.

• Hardiness: 4-8
• Native Region: BONAP MAP
• BONAP Map Key Color Guide: Map Color Key 
• Sun Exposure: Full to Partial Sun, Part Shade
• Flower Color: Gold, Purple, White
• Bloom Time: October, November
• Soil Type: Medium
• Mature Plant Size: 2-3'H, 2-3'W
• Plant Spacing: 24"
• Host Plant: Pearl Crescent and Checkerspot Butterfly
• Attracts: Bees, Birds, Butterflies
• Advantages: Naturalize to form a loose, informal hedgerow
• Landscape Uses: Cottage gardens, cut flowers, naturalize, perennial borders, pollinator gardens, mass planting
• Companion Plants: Sweet Goldenrod, Scarlet Beebalm