Calico Aster (Symphyotrichum lateriflorum) is 2-to 3-foot tall, fast growing perennial with a 3-foot spread that has thousands of half-inch, daisy-like flowers in clusters branching up and down the stems. The common name refers to the fact that the flower heads change color from yellow to purplish-red with flowers on one plant and even a single head may include multiple colors. Once established drought tolerant calico aster requires little care.

Calico aster is a host plant for pearl crescent and checkerspot butterfly caterpillars. Bees, including many specialized bees, and other pollinators this aster for its pollen and nectar, and songbirds eat its seeds. It is deer resistant.