Written by Max Kornetzke, Image from Wikipedia
The first snow has fallen (and mostly melted) and almost everything has gone to sleep for the coming winter months. I’ve come to love the neutral tones and subtle shifts of earthy colors present around us in these dormant months. Over the last few years, however, I have encountered some unique plants that flower unusually late for our cool climate.
Popping against the soft reds and sunbleached tans of our native prairie grasses is the stout, but showy Aromatic Aster (Symphyotrichum oblongifolium). Aromatic Aster is the finale of the prairie. This wildflower is more commonly found in the poor, dry soils of Western Wisconsin, but can be easily grown from seed and planted in any well-drained medium to dry soil in full sun. The classic aster flowers are a beautiful shade of lavender-blue that contrasts perfectly with the muted colors around it. The habit of this plant is somewhat bushy like a small shrub though it is an herbaceous perennial. They may seed prolifically, so it’s best to situate them in a naturalized setting. It’s always exciting to see the ones I’ve planted into my own garden still flowering in Mid-November.
Further into the woodlands of Wisconsin you might encounter a unique shrub or small tree called Common Witchhazel (Hamamelis virginiana). Most of the growing season this shrub offers subtle beauty with its unique twisting branches and large leaves. It really stands out when the strange yellow flowers begin to open in fall. The bright flowers emerge from leaf axils along the branches of the tree and the yellow ribbon-like petals dance in the breeze. They may flower from September all the way through November, and really stand out in a forest of freshly dropped leaves. Witchhazel is an excellent specimen for a foundation planting in full shade or sun or planted under the canopy of a large tree or forested edge.
Both of these plants offer our native pollinators late season resources and can imbue unique seasonal beauty into our own landscapes. Consider adding them to your personal landscape and enjoy the late season show they have to offer.