As the leaves fall and temperatures plummet, the daisy-like flowers of frost aster (Symphotrichum pilosum) keep going strong. These tiny blooms are packed with pollen and nectar, extending the period of floral resources for up to six weeks. The common name pilosum derives from the tiny white hairs that give frost aster’s stems and leaves a fuzzy appearance. The yellow centers of the flowers, which darken with age, are surrounded by white ray florets. As they mature, the seeds provide food for birds and small mammals through the winter.
Very easy to grow in sun or part shade, this 3-4 foot tall plant can be pinched back early in the season if more compact plants are desired. Like many natives, its growth habit is enthusiastic, so be prepared to rein it in occasionally!
Frost aster is just one in a line-up of outstanding late-blooming native asters. With autumn friends like this, who needs mums?
