With dainty white to pale pink flowers zig-zagging along dark-stemmed branches, Calico Aster brings a lacy soft glow to shady fall gardens. It grows 1-3 feet tall and blooms from late summer into fall, with flowers that age to pink or purple.

Thrives part shade to full shade and dry to medium soils - thrives in woodland edges, under trees, and in tough, dry spots.

Spreads gently by rhizomes and self seeds modestly - great for naturalizing a shady area or softening paths. Light and airy, it layers well with ferns and grasses.

Native to eastern and central North America, found in open woodlands, thickets, and shade meadows.

Green stems and toothed leaves emerge in spring; tiny white blooms appear along the arching stems in late summer through fall. Seed heads add soft texture into winter and persist above the fading foliage.

Important late-season nectar source for native bees, flies, and butterflies. Host plant for the pearl crescent butterfly and supports many specialists pollinators.