Smooth Blue Aster

Host for: Assortment of butterflies; food source for deer.

Flowers: August through October.

Plant Characteristics: Is normally branched above a moderate amount of the stem. The leaves often clasp themselves to the stem. 

Fun Facts: Has been used to revegetate roadsides and restore prairies. Can also provide shelter for some pollinators.

• The smooth blue aster (Symphyotrichum laeve) is a great source of pollen and nectar for pollinators. 

• The grey hairstreak butterflies (Strymon melinus) drink the nectar that the smooth blue aster (Symphyotrichum laeve) provides.