Simmond’s Aster (Symphyotrichum simmondsii) is a herbaceous, perennial wildflower native to Florida and especially abundant throughout the peninsula. Reaching up to 4 feet tall, it produces delicate lavender‑to‑lilac blooms from October through January, adding soft color to the fall and early‑winter landscape. This adaptable species thrives in full sun to part shade and grows well in dry to moist, calcareous soils. Endemic to the Southeastern Coastal Plain and especially abundant throughout Florida penninsular, it spreads by long underground rhizomes, forming graceful colonies that bring movement and texture to naturalistic plantings. Its late‑season flowers attract a wide variety of pollinators, offering vital nectar when few other plants are in bloom. A resilient and wildlife‑friendly choice for any native garden.
- Herbaceous, perennial wildflower
- Size: up to 4 feet tall
- Flower: Lavender to lilac
- Blooms October to January
- Exposure: Full sun, part shade
- Moisture: Dry to moist
- Soil: Calcareous
- Spreads by rhizomes
- Flowers attract a variety of pollinators
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