Bigleaf Aster
Aster macrophyllus
Last reviewed: July 2026
Bigleaf Aster is a native wildflower found in Wisconsin and across eastern North America, blooming from July through September with purple flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and beetles.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 25 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Bigleaf aster is a native perennial with large, heart-shaped leaves and clusters of small white to pale lavender flowers in late summer. It forms neat clumps that spread slowly and works well as a groundcover in partially shaded areas. The plant goes dormant in winter, dying back to the ground each year.
Growing Bigleaf Aster
Grow Bigleaf Aster in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bigleaf Aster is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: foundation, mid zone.
- Can look sparse when dormant in winter
- May spread beyond intended areas over time
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beetles during the late summer bloom period. Seeds provide food for birds in fall before the plant goes dormant.
Common questions
- When does Bigleaf Aster bloom?
- Bigleaf Aster typically blooms from July through September, producing clusters of small purple or lavender flowers.
- What pollinators visit Bigleaf Aster?
- This native wildflower attracts various pollinators including bees, butterflies, and beetles during its late summer blooming period.
- What growing conditions does Bigleaf Aster prefer?
- Bigleaf Aster thrives in partial sun to shade conditions with medium moisture levels, making it well-suited for woodland gardens and naturalized areas.
- Is Bigleaf Aster HOA-friendly?
- Bigleaf Aster is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low 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.
Ready to grow Bigleaf Aster? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz