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P11. Symphyotrichum oblongifolium (syn. Aster oblongifolius) 'Raydon's Favorite'
Aromatic aster (cultivar)
Hardiness: USDA Zones 3–8
Full sun–partial shade
Average soil
Native plant
2–4 feet tall
In October and November, when many plants are in autumnal decline, 'Raydon's Favorite' comes to life with hundreds of small, single blue-purple flowers with yellow centers. Upright and sprawling, this 2- to 4-foot-tall aromatic aster cultivar can tolerate sandy or clayey soil and won't need staking. The dense mass of gray-green foliage fills in a border smartly. Rubbing lightly at the base of the flowers releases the plant's fresh, green scent. Cut 'Raydon's Favorite' back in midsummer for a more compact plant.