Aster lateriflorus (calico aster)

Calico aster is a perennial wildflower with small, white or pale lavender flowers with yellow or reddish-purple centers. The showy flowers often appear in clusters along the branches. The common name derives from the fact that the flower heads turn from yellow to purplish-red, with both colors sometimes apparent at the same time. Foliage can turn bronze in the fall. Typically grows to 2–3' tall. Blooms late summer and fall, providing a touch of color to the fall garden. Give it partial shade to full sun. It does best in moist, well-drained soil but can tolerate some drought. Plant in masses; also may be used a perennial hedging plant along walkways or paths. 

Calico aster is native to eastern North American from Ontario to Nova Scotia and south to Minnesota, Florida and Texas. It is commonly found in a variety of habitats, primarily those such as forest margins, stream borders, low wet woods, meadows, and wet depressions of prairies and roadsides. Attracts various bees, wasps, and butterflies. An important host plant for caterpillars of several butterfly and moth species.

BONAP Native Range Map (bright green indicates county native, dark green indicates state native).

Photo by Leslie Cario