Blue Wood Aster (Symphyotrichum cordifolium)

Blue Wood Aster (Symphyotrichum cordifolium, also known as Aster cordifolius) is a native perennial with sharply toothed, heart-shaped leaves that form a basal rosette. Slightly arching, branched stems carry clusters of soft blue, daisy-like flowers with yellow centers from late summer into fall.

Native to eastern and central North America, including Georgia, it brings late-season color to borders and naturalized plantings. It grows best in full sun and well-drained soil and offers good heat and drought tolerance.

Growing details

• Plant type: Perennial
• Origin: Eastern and central North America; Georgia native
• Mature height: 2–5 feet
• Mature spread: 1.5–2 feet
• Spacing: Approximately 1.5 feet apart
• Hardiness: USDA zones 3–8
• Light: Full sun to part sun
• Soil: Well-drained soil
• Flowers: Soft blue, daisy-like blooms with yellow centers
• Bloom season: Late summer into fall
• Foliage: Sharply toothed, heart-shaped leaves
• Additional traits: Heat and drought tolerance

Care and garden use

Taller stems may need staking. Watch for powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. Aster wilt may occur in poorly drained soil.

Use as an accent or in grouped plantings, borders, naturalized areas, woodland gardens, rock gardens, or containers with room for its mature size. Pair with salvia, dianthus, or phlox for contrasting flowers and textures.

Image credits: Sten, Aster-cordifolius, CC BY-SA 3.0; Doppelbrau, Symphyotrichum cordifolium capitulescence, CC BY-SA 4.0. Plants naturally vary in appearance and may differ from the images shown.