Symphyotrichum oblongifolium ‘Raydon’s Favorite’

The native aromatic aster ‘Raydon’s Favorite’ is our favorite too. Symphyotrichum oblongifolium ‘Raydon’s Favorite’ has been turning heads with its dramatic floral display along the Arboretum parking lot since September. “These New England asters at Swarthmore knocked me out last week!”  local garden reporter Virginia Smith wrote about her experience at the Arboretum last month.

Symphyotrichum oblongifolium 'Raydon's Favorite' blooming in the Wister Parking Lot. photo credit: R. Robert

We appreciate this aster in the garden because it is the most reliable native perennial aster with a consistently striking floral display from September to October. The daisy-like, lavender flowers attract fantastic butterflies and bees. ‘Raydon’s Favorite’ also does well as a cut flower, and it has become a favorite of our flower arranging volunteers too.

It has been noted that ‘Raydon’s Favorite’ is unscathed by drought and/or excessive rain as we experienced this summer/fall. Plant in typical garden conditions of sun with well-drained soil for best results. Another great aromatic aster is  ‘October Skies’ for its more compact form.