There are as many as 24 specific types of asters in the genus Symphyotrichum that are native to Wisconsin, and they come in white, blue, red, and purple. They are highly variable annual and perennial wildflowers. Asters grow one to six feet tall and one to four feet wide. Asters can grow in a variety of conditions, including exposed hillsides, prairies, bluffs, and moist woodlands. They can tolerate a range of soils, from slightly acidic to neutral to alkaline, but prefer free-draining soil, especially in the winter. Asters also need full sun to flower well but can tolerate partial shade in hot weather. (SF)