Symphyotrichum sericeum, Silky Aster

The first time I saw this Aster, way up in the Aspen Parklands of Minnesota, I was charmed by its diminutive form, red-purple rays and gray-green leaves with the finest hairs. Growing this one was without question. Perfect for scrambling over rocks, in the front of a prairie garden, or mixed right into it.

Blooms: lavender-purple with yellow disc, August to October

Height: 12 to 24 inches