Scaleleaf or Clasping Aster (Symphyotrichum adnatum)

Description:   Perennial. In sunny uncrowded spots it reaches 1+ ft tall x 2 ft wide, dome-shaped with multiple wire-like branches and small appressed scale-like leaves, but can be more spindly when crowded.  Like many other asters, it blooms in autumn. Flowers are ¾-1” wide, some shade of light blue, lavender, or pink, and provide a spectacular display in full sun.

Natural Habitat: A pineland plant in Miami-Dade; elsewhere, open woods, waste areas, sandy and dry fields.

Planting and Care:  Tolerates all but very boggy soil conditions. Flowers best with full sun.  Due to its habit, best to space at least 12-16 inches from larger plants to get optimum size and shape. Can trim branches to ground level yearly. 

Pros:  Hardy, tolerates wide variety of soil conditions.  Beautiful autumn flower display.  Attracts native pollinators.

Cons:  Not much, except requires abundant sun for optimal blooming.