Aster [Symphyotrichum] oblongifolius ‘Raydon’s Favorite’ #1 (Aromatic Aster)

‘Raydon’s Favorite’ is a cultivated variety of our native Aromatic Aster (Aster oblongifolius). This selection is more compact and floriferous than the straight species. Its form is densely branching, resulting in a mounded globe shape. It creeps slowly from underground rhizomes, but it is not highly competitive. It is adaptable to many different growing conditions, but prefers full sun and lean soils.

‘Raydon’s Favorite’ was one of seven asters (out of 119 varieties) to receive the top rating in the Aster Evaluation Trial at the Chicago Botanic Garden: “An abundance of blue-purple flowers are produced over a long period beginning in early August; in fact, precocious flowers often pop up a few weeks before blooming begins in earnest. The billowy habit of ‘Raydon’s Favorite’ has an informal look that suits it well to mass plantings and naturalizing. Aromatic Aster is a good alternative to New England Aster because it is more resistant to powdery mildew.” (Top-rated asters displayed consistently strong habits, superior flower production, excellent disease resistance, and full winter hardiness throughout a six-year evaluation term.)

Sources:
Herbaceous Perennial Plants by Allan M. Armitage
Mt Cuba Center
National Garden Clubs, Inc.