Annual Saltmarsh Aster
Symphyotrichum subulatum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 21 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Annual saltmarsh aster is a native wildflower that produces small white or pale purple daisy-like blooms from summer through fall. This compact plant thrives in full sun and tolerates salt spray, making it well-suited for coastal gardens.
In an HOA neighborhood
Annual Saltmarsh Aster takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Annual nature requires replanting each year
- Can appear weedy or unkempt to traditional gardeners
- May self-seed unpredictably in formal landscapes
Wildlife value
The long blooming period provides nectar for bees, butterflies, and beneficial flies from midsummer through October. Seeds support small birds during fall migration.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Annual Saltmarsh Aster fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.