This aster is native to the northeastern and central parts of the US. It blooms in late summer-early fall with masses of fine-petaled flowers in shades of blue and purple. It is called aromatic aster because of the sticky, scented glands on the small, narrow leaves. It can reach a height of 3 feet with a similar spread, but should be clipped back by a fourth in early summer. This creates a denser, more compact plant with more flowers. It should be planted in full sun and well-drained soil. Once established, it is both heat and drought tolerant.