A Compact, Mildew-Resistant Native Aster in Blue

Wood's Blue Aster (Symphyotrichum dumosum 'Wood's Blue') rounds out the Wood's series with cool blue-violet, yellow-centered daisies on a tidy, low mound in late summer and fall. Bred for excellent mildew resistance, it keeps clean foliage while offering crucial late-season nectar for monarchs and native bees. Its true-blue tones are a refreshing fall note, and it's a dependable, easy choice for Eden Prairie, Plymouth, and Eagan pollinator gardens.

Landscape Uses

Use Wood's Blue at the front of borders, in pollinator and native gardens, and in containers. Its mildew resistance and tidy habit pair beautifully with ornamental grasses, sedum, goldenrod, and other asters.

Best Time to Plant

Plant in spring or early fall. Spring planting gives the longest establishment window before winter.

How to Plant

Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Set the crown level with the soil, backfill, water in well, and mulch 2–3 inches deep, keeping mulch off the stems.

Watering

First Year: Water deeply 1–2 times per week to establish the roots.
After Year One: Water during dry spells. Asters are fairly drought tolerant once established but bloom best with occasional water.
Drip Irrigation: A drip line keeps moisture even without wetting foliage, which helps prevent mildew.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Wood's Blue mildew resistant?
Yes, the Wood's series is known for clean, mildew-resistant foliage.

Is it good for pollinators?
Yes, asters are among the most important fall nectar sources for monarchs and native bees.

Is it hardy in Minnesota?
Yes, hardy to Zone 4 and reliable statewide.

Is it deer resistant?
Yes, deer tend to avoid asters.

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Pair Wood's Blue with Wood's Pink and Wood's Purple, ornamental grasses, and fall perennials for a pollinator-friendly autumn display.