Silky Aster (Symphyotrichum sericeum) is a Florida native perennial known for its soft, silvery foliage and late‑season bursts of color. Typically growing 2–3 feet tall and 1–2 feet wide, it forms an attractive clump that stands out even before it blooms. In September through October, the plant produces abundant cornflower‑blue flowers that brighten dry, sunny landscapes when many other natives have finished flowering. Silky aster thrives in full sun, well‑drained sandy soil, making it well suited to Florida’s natural scrub and sandhill environments. Its nectar‑rich blooms attract a wide variety of bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, providing an important late‑season food source while adding vibrant color and texture to native plant gardens.
- Perennial
- Size: 2-3 ft. tall by 1-2 ft. wide
- Flower: Cornflower blue
- Blooms September - October
- Exposure: Full sun
- Moisture: Well-drained
- Soil: Sand
- Nectar source for wide variety of bees, butterflies and other pollinators
- Host plant for Pearl Crescent butterfly
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