// SPECIES PROFILE · PERENNIAL · NATIVE

Calico aster

Symphyotrichum lateriflorum

Calico aster (Symphyotrichum lateriflorum) is a perennial in the — family. Native range includes AR, KS, MO, OK. Hardy in zones 2b–11b. Mature size 2'–5'. Blooms Aug–Oct.

// QUICK FACTS

Family: —
Group: perennial
Native range: Native to 37 U.S. states, including AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL…
USDA hardiness: Zones 2b–11b
Mature size: 2'–5'
Sun: Full sun
Water: —
Bloom: Aug–Oct
Wildlife value: Pollinator and wildlife support
Ecological role: native species profile

Calico aster (Symphyotrichum lateriflorum) — *Symphyotrichum lateriflorum* — Calico aster. Photo by Cathie Bird via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0).

Field Notes

[ growing · ecology · siting · care ]

Calico aster (Symphyotrichum lateriflorum) is a perennial in the — family. Native range includes AR, KS, MO, OK. Hardy in zones 2b–11b. Mature size 2'–5'. Blooms Aug–Oct.

Why it's on this list: native species profile. Native-range data from the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (NPIN), cross-checked against iNaturalist observations. Part of Rooted Revival's regional native plant catalog — true natives for Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri and Kansas.

Companion Planting

[ guild · polyculture · cross-layer pairings ]

In the same native range, calico aster pairs naturally with: Broadleaf Arrowhead (Sagittaria latifolia), Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa), Common Blue Violet (Viola sororia), Common Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum).