Aster oblongifolius ‘October Skies’ (syn. Symphyotrichum ‘October Skies). When this plant’s bigger brother, Aster ‘Raydon’s Favorite’, first came on the scene it gained a lot of positive press from professional gardeners and horticulturists for its amazing flower production and great overall performance in the autumn garden. Its only flaw was its large size, which limited its usefulness in smaller scale gardens.  The solution…Aster ‘October Skies’.   This plant is a premier choice for fall splendor; offering a tight mound of fragrant foliage (common name = “fragrant aster”) enveloped in an abundance of lavender blue daisy-like flowers for weeks in the fall. Dimensions are roughly 24” tall x 36” wide. This plant thrives in full sun and is tolerant of dry conditions. Definitely worth considering if you’re looking for fall color in the sunny garden.