Fall Aster

A vital larval host plant for Central Texas butterflies including Pearl Crescent, Fall Aster (Symphyotrichum oblongifolium) is a deciduous Texas perennial native across the Central Great Plains, Cross Timbers, and Edwards Plateau. During Fall, the plant produces purple blooms. Flowering is followed by ornamental fruit is a cypsela (pl. cypselae). though technically incorrect, the fruit is often referred to as an achene that add seasonal interest. It plays a key ecological role as a larval host plant for Central Texas butterflies, including Pearl Crescent. It provides essential nectar, shelter, or forage for native wildlife, including Bees, Birds, Browsers, Butterflies, Moths, and Small Mammals. Best suited to calcareous, dry, moist, rocky, sand, and well drained, Fall Aster adapts seamlessly to local soil conditions. It requires minimal supplemental water and tolerates dry spells with ease.