Aster laevis “Calliope”

Michaelmas Daisy, Smooth Aster
Aster laevis “Calliope”
Type: Perennial
Exposure: Full Sun
Water: Regular

Dark foliage and dramatic, purplish-black stems stand in striking contrast to profuse lilac-colored blooms. Growing to 6ft (1.8m) tall and spreading to 2ft (60cm) wide, it forms an unruly mass of green leaves touched with purple, that are smooth instead of the usual fuzzy aster leaves. The flowers are 1in (2.5cm) across, daisy-shaped with yellow centers, and arrive in droves in late summer, persisting well into fall. It may need a bit of support when it reaches its full height. It’s a great companion for ornamental grasses, and is a natural for a cottage garden planting scheme.

Cheers,

John