This aster is very rare in the Northeast where it is only found in one county in Vermont and is endangered. The white/blue blooms are enjoyed from August through October, feeding late-season pollinators. Plant on a woodland edge or in clumps in a perennial garden where it will self-seed and may volunteer in other areas of the garden.

Native range: Eastern North America, widespread across the eastern half of the continent from southeastern Canada south to the Gulf states

Size: 3 feet tall, space 12-24 inches apart

Growing conditions: Full to partial shade, medium to dry soil

Bloom period: August through October

Wildlife value: Attracts butterflies, bees, and other pollinators; larval host for Silvery Checkerspot and Pearl Crescent butterflies and various moth species; seeds eaten by birds; provides late-season nectar when few other flowers are available

Garden benefits: Deer resistant, drought tolerant, late-season food source, autumn color