Symphyotrichum (Aster) shortii (Short's Aster) Unity Grown

Symphyotrichum shortii (syn. Aster shortii), also referred to as Short's aster, is a native woodland aster, which typically grows to between three and four feet tall and blooms from late summer through early fall, producing unique flowers. With daisy-like purple rays, Short's aster's flowers have a center which begins yellow then turns brick red after pollination; this visual signal of pollination is a great indicator just how popular Symphyotrichum shortii is with buttterflies and bees, as well as hummingbirds. In the later fall months, Short's aster is a favorite of birds who feed on its seed heads.

Typically found in shaded locations in prairies, meadows, or forest edges, Symphyotrichum shortii prefers rich, moist soil in locations with part to full shade, unlike other asters. While individual plants are upright, Symphyotrichum shortii is capable of rapidly spreading through an area via self-seeding, adding a massing effect.