Tatarian aster is an erect, tall-growing species, 3 to 6 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide, though it rarely needs staking due to thick, sturdy stems. Distinctive paddle-shaped, lower leaves are up to 24 inches long and 6 inches wide, but leaves are significantly smaller in size higher up on the plant. Small but abundant flowers with deep lavender to blue rays and yellow centers appear in flat-topped clusters in autumn. A late blooming aster that still looks fresh at time of first frost. Attractive to butterflies. Use at the back of a perennial border or tucked in among the ornamental grasses.
Grow in average, medium to dry, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Pinching back stems in late spring will lower overall plant height, but will also delay bloom onset and increase branches, increasing the number of blooms. A light winter mulch will help protect crowns. Cut stems to the ground in early spring before new growth appears. Wet soils in winter can be fatal.