Comments

For the size of the plant, the inflorescence of Sky Blue Aster is rather large and showy. This species of aster closely resembles Aster shortii (Short's Aster), even though the latter is a woodland species. However, the upper leaves of Short's Aster are often cordate, rather than narrowly lanceolate or linear, and its flowers are slightly larger in size. Another similar species, Aster laevis (Smooth Blue Aster), doesn't have any cordate or broadly oval leaves at the base of the plant, unlike Sky Blue Aster, and the flowers of the former species tend to be slightly larger in size as well. In distinguishing the different species of asters, it is often useful to consider the shape of the leaves (especially the basal leaves), and the presence or absence of fine hairs on the foliage and stems. Another scientific name for this plant is Aster azureus. Return