Alkali Aster
Symphyotrichum frondosum
Last reviewed: August 2026
Toxicity unknown
Alkali Aster (Symphyotrichum frondosum) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 6 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 445 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
Find rebates in your areaBrowse plants for this ecoregion
Symphyotrichum frondosum is a native aster that produces clusters of small white or pale purple daisy-like flowers from summer through early fall. This compact perennial forms neat clumps with fine-textured foliage and reaches 1-3 feet in height.
In an HOA neighborhood
Alkali Aster is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: foundation, mid zone.
- May look sparse or weedy in early spring
- Some HOAs prefer non-native ornamentals
Wildlife value
The late-season blooms provide crucial nectar for bees and butterflies when many other flowers have finished. Seeds also feed songbirds in fall and winter.
Common questions
- How much sun does Alkali Aster need?
- Alkali Aster grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Alkali Aster bloom?
- Alkali Aster blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is Alkali Aster native?
- Alkali Aster (Symphyotrichum frondosum) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 6 more states, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Alkali Aster attract?
- Alkali Aster draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Alkali Aster HOA-friendly?
- Alkali Aster is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Alkali Aster? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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