Aster lateriflorus (Calico Aster) is an erect-growing, clump-forming wildflower that can grow to a height of 4.1 ft. Calico Aster is also known by the Latin name Symphyotrichum lateriflorum. Blooming in the fall with white petals and reddish-purple centers, Aster lateriflorus is one of our last species in flower before a hard frost. The seeds have a pappus (parachute) that aids in wind dispersal of the seeds. Of all our native wildflowers, Calico Aster has one of the largest distribution ranges. Aster lateriflorus occurs from Minnesota and eastern Texas to Maine and northern Florida. Calico Aster is a perennial speces that naturally occurs in dry open places and open woods on mesic soils. We regularly use this species in partial shade to full sun upland meadow mixes. Some seed lots of White Wood Aster can have significant seed dormancy. To break seed dormancy for transplant production of Aster divaricatus, we recommend three months of cold, moist stratification. Calico Aster is a member of the aster (Asteraceae) family.
