A shade loving aster? Why yes, indeed. Heart Leaved Aster (Symphyotrichum cordifolium) is found in dry, organic-rich woodlands and forest margins in part shade. The name comes from the lower heart-shaped leaves. It tolerates full shade or sun, but will do best in part shade. Beautiful, branching clusters of pale blue flowers bring visual excitement in late fall for a few weeks. A great source of nectar and opportunity for bees and butterflies to pollinate.
It forms clumps or small colonies with well developed roots and will thrive in a range of soils that are well-draining with adequate organic content that is not consistently wet. Plant in a shaded wildflower garden with moderately dry soil amongst other shade tolerant flowers, grasses, or spring ephemerals.
Check out our three other three Aster species:
White Wood Aster
Smooth Blue Aster
Heath Aster
