Georgia Aster Symphyotrichum georgianum

Georgia aster is an herbaceous wildflower in the daisy family (Asteraceae) and native to Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina. It is typically found in dry rocky woodlands or in disturbed areas. It has become rare due to threats to its habitat and wildfire suppression.

The plant will grow 1 to 3 feet tall and wide in full sun and well-drained, slightly acidic or alkaline soils. Plant the crown at soil level and keep moist until established. Once established, it is drought tolerant. Trim back to half of its height in midsummer to promote bushiness. The best way to propagate is by division of the rhizomes in early spring as the seeds of a colony of plants are usually self-sterile and need pollen from another colony to set fertile seeds.

The vibrant purple flowers appear in clusters in early to late fall and attract many bees and butterflies. The purple ray flowers surround a center of white disc flowers that become reddish-purple with age.

This plant may be used in groups or borders of cottage, native, pollinator or butterfly gardens and in naturalized areas such as meadows.

This is one of the 20 key pollinator plants that should be blooming in August for the Great Southeast Pollinator Census 2025.

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems:  No significant problems.