Another lesser-known aster that deserves to be grown more, stiff aster shines in sunny, dry gardens. Frequently found in sandy habitats in the wild, this plant’s low stature and stiff needle-like leaves are evidence of its preference for well-draining sites and its exceptional drought tolerance. Stiff aster is the perfect fall-bloomer for a low meadow or for edging a sunny border. Flowers range from pale to dark lavender. Combines great with pussytoes, northeastern beardtongue, little bluestem, and gray goldenrod.
Another lesser-known aster that deserves to be grown more, stiff aster shines in sunny, dry gardens. Frequently found in sandy habitats in the wild, this plant’s low stature and stiff needle-like leaves are evidence of its preference for well-draining sites and its exceptional drought tolerance. Stiff aster is the perfect fall-bloomer for a low meadow or for edging a sunny border. Flowers range from pale to dark lavender. Combines great with pussytoes, northeastern beardtongue, little bluestem, and gray goldenrod.
Height: 12-18”
Bloom Time: late summer
Light: full sun, part shade
Soil: average to dry
Establishment: easy, no special requirements
Deer Resistance: high
Pollinator Support: very high
Native Range: local ecotype
Seed Origin: CT
