Crooked Stem Aster

The branches of Crooked-Stemmed Aster have a unique, zigzagging habit that give this plant its name. The plant is especially prolific, and its bountiful pale purple blooms resemble a fluffy cloud. It is smaller than other asters and normally remains upright under its heavy flower loads. Crooked-Stemmed Aster flowers in late summer and early fall and is visited by many pollinators. It's a tough plant often found in urban areas, but it can seed aggressively when very happy. Either pull seedlings or let crooked-stemmed aster fill in the spaces in the garden.

• Consider removing seedlings if spread becomes an issue