Symphyotrichum drummondii aka Drummond's Aster

Symphyotrichum drummondii is an upright herbaceous perennial in the aster family. Its common name is Drummond’s aster. It also has the older name Aster drummondii. This plant comes from the central and eastern United States. Its range reaches from Minnesota and Pennsylvania south to Texas and Alabama. In the wild, it grows in open woods and clearings. It occurs across much of Missouri but is scarce in the Ozarks.

Leafy stems reach 3–4 feet [0.91–1.22 m] tall. Mature plants spread to about 3 feet [0.91 m] wide. The leaves grow alternately along the stems. Each leaf can reach about 0.33 feet [0.10 m] long. Lower leaves have a heart-shaped base and an oval outline. Their edges bear teeth. Upper leaves have shallow, rounded teeth mixed with sharper ones. Leaves become smaller toward the stem tips. Taller plants may need support to keep their stems upright.

Flowers open from August through October, spanning late summer and fall. Large clusters rise from the tops of the stems. Each flowerhead measures about 0.06 feet [0.02 m] across. Lavender ray florets surround a yellow central disk. The flower clusters provide a showy display above the leaves. They also attract butterflies to the garden. Their late bloom season gives this aster value in mixed borders. Plants also suit cottage gardens, prairie plantings, and open woodland settings. Gardeners can plant them in groups or larger masses.

Grow this aster in average soil that drains well. It accepts dry to moist soil and tolerates drought. Full sun and partial shade both suit it. In places with cool summers, it tolerates full sun. Partial shade gives better growth where summers are hot. Hot, dry weather can cause the lower leaves to wither. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5–8. Its care needs are low, and it is easy to grow.

Pinch stems in late spring or early summer for shorter growth. This can help control the height of a planting. Watch for seedlings where space is limited. The plant can spread strongly through self-seeding. That habit also suits areas where plants may naturalize. No serious insect or disease problems are reported. Height and seed spread are the main management concerns described.