Calico Aster (Symphyotrichum lateriflorum) is a graceful perennial that delights with its pale purple blossoms. Growing up to five feet tall with beautifully branching stems, this hardy plant flourishes in full sun to part shade and adapts well to well-drained clay or loamy sand. Blooming in the fall, its clusters of flowers provide a rich nectar buffet, attracting pollinators like bumble bees, miner bees, sweat bees, hoverflies, and wasps.
In addition to supporting pollinators, this remarkable plant serves as a larval host for the Isabella Tiger moth, Green Owlet moth, Pearl Crescent, and Silvery Checkerspot butterflies. A prolific self-seeder, the Calico Aster spreads naturally, offering an easy and effective way to enhance biodiversity in any garden or landscape.
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