Smooth aster has wonderful bright blue flowers that attract many native bees, butterflies and other insects. The blue flowers with yellow centers rise above beautiful grey green foliage. The foliage stays full right to the ground unlike some other Asters that have bare legs in the summer. Smooth aster flowers very freely and is excellent in bouquets. The leaves are smooth like leather this explains the common name. 

Most insects use this plant for nectar. The Pearl Crescent butterfly uses it as food for its larvae. So putting it in your garden is a great way to attract more butterflies to your garden.

Smooth aster flowers in late summer into the fall so it extends the growing season. Making the fall garden come alive with flowers and insects long after other plants have gone to seed. Leave the seed heads in the fall for the birds. 

Good growing conditions for smooth aster are full sun and dry soil. It is fairly easy to grow. Companions include New England aster, goldenrods, black-eyed Susan, purple coneflower, various grasses, summer phlox and ox-eye sunflower.