Aromatic Aster 'October Skies'

About this plant

Aster oblongifolius 'October Skies', commonly known as Aromatic Aster, is a tough and beautiful perennial renowned for its abundant, daisy-like, lavender-blue flowers with cheerful yellow centers. Blooming profusely from late summer into autumn, this aster provides crucial nectar for pollinators when many other plants are fading, extending the vibrancy of your garden. Its tidy, compact growth habit and disease resistance make it an ideal choice for borders, rock gardens, cottage gardens, or naturalized areas. The aromatic foliage adds another sensory dimension to your landscape, releasing a pleasant scent when brushed. 'October Skies' is extremely adaptable and thrives in a range of conditions, making it a reliable and rewarding addition to nearly any garden. Beyond its beauty, this aster is a vital ecological contributor, supporting local ecosystems and encouraging biodiversity. Plant Aromatic Aster 'October Skies' for an effortless display of late-season charm and watch your garden come alive with activity.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Easily grown in average, well-drained soil. Tolerates a variety of soil types including sandy or clay. Cut back aggressively in spring (the 'Chelsea chop') to encourage a bushier habit and more prolific flowering. Deadhead spent blooms for a tidier appearance, though not strictly necessary. Divide clumps every 3-4 years to maintain vigor.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.