As its common name suggests, this species has smooth leaves to the touch. It is a long-lived perennial that dies back to the ground each winter and emerges early in spring getting to a height of about 3 feet with blooms in late summer to fall. The flowers are called light blue, but appear lavender with a yellow center. The flower heads are about ½-3/4 inch wide. It is a non-aggressive plant with a rhizomatous root system that allows the plant to spread slowly. It prefers well-drained open habitat. It is very popular with pollinators. It is also the host plant for the Pearl Crescent and Silvery checkerspot butterflies. Also known as Aster laevis.