Symphyotrichum shortii 100 Seeds – Short's Aster Heirloom Non-GMO Native Purple Pollinator Flower

Symphyotrichum shortii, commonly known as Short's Aster, is a native perennial wildflower that brings late-season color to gardens and natural landscapes. This heirloom, non-GMO variety produces clusters of small, daisy-like purple flowers with yellow centers that bloom from late summer into fall. The blooms are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it an excellent choice for pollinator gardens, meadow plantings, and native plant collections.

Short's Aster is a hardy, low-maintenance plant that thrives in a range of conditions, from partial shade to full sun. Its tolerance for dry to medium soils and its ability to naturalize make it a valuable addition to woodland edges, rain gardens, and cottage gardens. The plant typically grows 2 to 3 feet tall and spreads slowly by rhizomes, forming a lovely clump over time.

Plant Features

• Native perennial wildflower with purple, daisy-like blooms
• Heirloom, non-GMO seeds
• Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
• Blooms in late summer to fall when many other flowers have faded
• Tolerates a variety of soil types and light conditions

Growing Information

• Botanical Name: Symphyotrichum shortii
• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Well-drained, average to dry soil
• Water Requirements: Low to medium; drought tolerant once established
• Growth Habit: Upright, clump-forming
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-8
• Bloom Season: Late summer to fall
• Mature Height: 2-3 feet
• Spacing: 18-24 inches apart

Planting & Care

Sow Short's Aster seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, or directly in the garden in late fall for natural stratification. Press seeds lightly into the soil surface; do not cover deeply, as light aids germination. Keep the soil consistently moist until seedlings emerge, which typically takes 14-30 days at 65-70°F. Once seedlings have a few sets of true leaves, transplant them outdoors after the danger of frost has passed, spacing them 18-24 inches apart.

Short's Aster prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate dry conditions once established. Water regularly during the first growing season to help roots develop, then reduce watering as the plant matures. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued bloom, or leave seed heads for birds. In late fall, cut back stems to ground level after the foliage dies back. Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring to maintain vigor.

What's Included

100 Symphyotrichum shortii seeds (Short's Aster).