Symphyotrichum turbinellum 100 Seeds – Prairie Aster Heirloom Native Purple Pollinator Flower
Symphyotrichum turbinellum, commonly known as prairie aster or smooth blue aster, is a native perennial prized for its late-season display of soft purple-blue flowers. This heirloom, non-GMO variety brings dependable color to prairies, wildflower meadows, and pollinator gardens when many other plants have finished blooming. Its daisy-like blooms with golden centers rise above sturdy green stems, creating a lovely contrast in mixed borders and naturalized plantings.
Prairie aster is a favorite of bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, making it an excellent choice for pollinator-friendly landscapes. It also works well as a cut flower and provides valuable late-season nectar. Whether you are establishing a native plant garden or adding diversity to an existing bed, this easy-to-grow perennial offers beauty and ecological value.
Plant Features
- Native perennial wildflower with soft purple-blue blooms
- Heirloom, non-GMO seeds for sustainable gardening
- Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
- Blooms in late summer to fall when few other flowers are available
- Excellent for meadows, borders, and cut flower arrangements
Growing Information
- Botanical Name: Symphyotrichum turbinellum
- 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
- Bloom Season: Late summer to fall
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-8
- Mature Height: 2-3 feet
- Spacing: 18-24 inches apart
Planting & Care
Sow prairie aster seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost or directly in the garden after the danger of frost has passed. 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. Once seedlings have several sets of true leaves, transplant them outdoors after hardening off.
Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Water regularly during the first growing season to help plants establish a strong root system. Once established, prairie aster is relatively low-maintenance and drought tolerant. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued bloom, or leave seed heads for birds. Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring to maintain vigor.
What's Included
You will receive 100 Symphyotrichum turbinellum seeds (prairie aster).