Host plant of the black swallowtail. Works well in dry shade. Loose umbels of yellow flowers seem to float delicately in the air.

May spread aggressively. Best for a more wild garden. Birds love the seeds.

Can be pruned a few times a year, and even hedged. Prolific reseeder. A study in KC showed that Symphyotrichum is one of the plant genera in our area that attracts the largest number of different bee species.

Sprawling plant that may be used as a beautiful groundcover with a long bloom season. Does not like wet soils.

This plant tolerates a wide range of sun/water conditions.