Arrowleaf aster
Symphyotrichum urophyllum
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
24"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
IL, IN, OH, PA and 1 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
An upright perennial forb with arrow-shaped, toothed leaves and airy sprays of small lavender-blue daisy flowers with yellow centers in late summer into fall. Tolerates dappled shade and average garden soil better than most asters.
In an HOA neighborhood
Arrowleaf aster is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- Open, airy habit can look sparse in formal front-yard beds
Wildlife value
Host plant for pearl crescent butterfly.
Fall blooms provide nectar for bees and migrating butterflies, and the foliage hosts pearl crescent butterfly caterpillars.
Common questions
- How much sun does Arrowleaf aster need?
- Arrowleaf aster grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Arrowleaf aster bloom?
- Arrowleaf aster blooms in August, September, and October.
- Where is Arrowleaf aster native?
- Arrowleaf aster (Symphyotrichum urophyllum) is native to IL, IN, OH, PA and 1 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What butterflies or moths does Arrowleaf aster host?
- Arrowleaf aster is a larval host plant for pearl crescent butterfly.
- Is Arrowleaf aster HOA-friendly?
- Arrowleaf aster is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
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 Arrowleaf aster fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.