{"product_id":"aster-swamp","title":"Aster, Swamp","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAster, Swamp\u003c\/strong\u003e (\u003cem\u003eSymphyotrichum puniceum\u003c\/em\u003e)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSwamp Aster is a robust native perennial found in wetlands, wet meadows, streambanks, and marsh edges throughout eastern and central North America. Blooming late in the season with abundant lavender-purple flowers, it provides one of the most important nectar resources for pollinators preparing for winter migration or dormancy. Its tall stature, moisture tolerance, and exceptional ecological value make it a cornerstone species for rain gardens, wetland restorations, and native meadow plantings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Characteristics\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCritical late-season nectar source for pollinators\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSwamp Aster blooms from late summer through fall, providing abundant nectar and pollen when many other native flowers have finished flowering. Native bees, migrating Monarch butterflies, skippers, syrphid flies, and numerous beneficial insects depend on asters like this to fuel late-season activity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOutstanding Monarch migration plant\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe flowers bloom during peak Monarch migration in much of its range, offering an important nectar source as butterflies prepare for their long journey south. Combined with Goldenrods and Joe Pye Weeds, Swamp Aster helps create highly valuable fall pollinator habitat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExcellent for wet soils and restoration projects\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUnlike many asters that prefer average conditions, Swamp Aster thrives in moist to wet soils and tolerates periodic flooding. Its extensive root system helps stabilize streambanks and wetland edges while improving habitat diversity in restoration projects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvides winter habitat and bird resources\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAfter flowering, seed heads persist into winter and provide food for small birds. The sturdy stems also serve as overwintering habitat for native bees and beneficial insects, making it valuable long after the bloom season ends.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Details\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNative range:\u003c\/strong\u003e Eastern and Central North America\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant life cycle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Perennial\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSun requirements:\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun to partial shade\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil requirements:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medium-wet to wet\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMature height:\u003c\/strong\u003e 4–7 feet\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBloom time:\u003c\/strong\u003e August – October\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBloom color:\u003c\/strong\u003e Lavender-purple\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUSDA Hardiness zones:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3–8\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSwamp Aster performs best in consistently moist soils but adapts to average garden conditions with adequate moisture. Plant alongside Blue Flag Iris, Joe Pye Weed, Boneset, Cardinal Flower, and Swamp Milkweed to create highly productive pollinator habitats and rain garden communities. Leave stems standing through winter to provide habitat for beneficial insects and seed resources for wildlife.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Farm Connection","offers":[{"title":"2.5\" pot","offer_id":48430686208259,"sku":"PNA-1133","price":4.25,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Quart","offer_id":48430751252739,"sku":"PNA-1134","price":8.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0675\/1128\/8067\/files\/Aster_Swamp.jpg?v=1781719393","url":"https:\/\/tfcnursery.com\/products\/aster-swamp","provider":"The Farm Connection","version":"1.0","type":"link"}