SafePlants

Climbing Aster: A Delight of the Fall Garden

Climbing aster is known for its stunning display of lavender, daisy-like flowers that bloom late in the year, offering a burst of color when many other wildflowers have faded.

Considerations for Pets

• Climbing aster is described as having a vine-like habit, potentially posing a risk if pets ingest or become entangled in its stems.
• The plant is noted as being woody, which might be a consideration for pets that tend to chew on plant material.

Considerations for Children

• Climbing aster can grow to be 10 feet tall and 6 feet across, presenting a possibility for children to interact with the plant's structure in a garden setting.
• Side branches interlace, which could create areas where small children might become entangled.

Scientific Name and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Symphyotrichum carolinianum (also referenced as Aster carolinianus and Ampelaster carolinianus)
• Common Name: Climbing Aster, Carolina Aster

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Asteraceae (Daisy family)
• Genus: Ampelaster or Symphyotrichum or Aster (depending on taxonomic classification)
• Basionym: Aster carolinianus Walter 1788

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the southeastern United States.
• Common in much of Florida, except the far western Panhandle.
• Found in wetland habitats of low elevation.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• A fast-growing vine that can be trained as a bush.
• Can reach up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet across.
• Has lavender/yellow flowers.
• Side branches grow horizontally, interlacing themselves.
• Woody stems that do not die back in winter.
• The flowers have a pleasant scent, sometimes compared to toasted coconut.

Ecological Role

• Utilizes the structure of other plants to scramble vertically.
• Attracts butterflies.

Quirky Facts

• Climbing aster blooms late in the year, providing color when few other wildflowers are in bloom.
• The flowers emit a scent some compare to toasted coconut.