Native Aster: Drought Tolerant Fall Blooming Perennials

Every year with the onset of cooler weather, gardeners in our area flock to the nearest garden center to purchase fall mums for our gardens. Why do we do that again, year after year? Because although perennials, mums don't always survive our tough summers. Some chrysanthemums planted in previous years are still around, but if every mum I'd ever planted was still alive, I'd have no room for anything else!

So, what's an alternative? Something that'll provide eye-catching fall color every single year without replanting every fall? (You know I have one, Honey!) Asters! Asters come in many colors and sizes, so there's one that's perfect for your garden.

My favorite right now is Aster oblongifolius 'Raydon's Favorite.' Bright lavender daisy-like flowers with yellow centers show off in our roadside garden although we're still experiencing drought conditions. I'll be planting more this weekend. Asters grow very well in our climate, loving hot, summer sun, and not minding our inconsistent winters.

Hardiness: USDA Zones 3-7.

Deer Resistant - Deer do not like the aromatic foliage!

Soil Requirement: Asters do well in just about any soil as long as well-drained.

Attracts butterflies.

Great cut flower.

With attributes like that, one might find it hard to believe that it's a native plant, but Aster oblongifolius is found on hillsides and cliffs here in the United States. You can't beat it for an easy care, drought tolerant plant in full sun.