How much sun does Bog Aster need?

Bog Aster grows best in part shade conditions.

When does Bog Aster bloom?

Bog Aster blooms in July, August, and September.

Where is Bog Aster native?

Bog Aster (Oclemena nemoralis) is native to CT, DE, MA, MD and 8 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).

What pollinators does Bog Aster attract?

Bog Aster draws bees, butterflies, and beetles.

Is Bog Aster HOA-friendly?

Bog Aster is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Bog Aster

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Oclemena nemoralis

Last reviewed: August 2026

Toxicity unknown

Bog Aster (Oclemena nemoralis) 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

part shade

Water

medium

Size

12"–24" H × 12"–18" W

Bloom

Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

CT, DE, MA, MD and 8 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies, beetles

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 area

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Northeastern Highlands Northeastern Coastal Zone Middle Atlantic Coastal Plain Acadian Plains and Hills Atlantic Coastal Pine Barrens

Aromatic aster is a native wildflower that produces clusters of small white to pale purple daisy-like flowers from summer through early fall. This compact perennial forms neat clumps with narrow leaves and thrives in partially shaded areas with average moisture.

In an HOA neighborhood

Bog Aster is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.

Works well in: foundation, mid zone.

May look sparse in early spring
Flowers are small and less showy than typical garden asters

Wildlife value

The flowers attract native bees, butterflies, and beneficial beetles during its long blooming period. Seeds provide food for songbirds in late fall and winter.

Common questions

How much sun does Bog Aster need?: Bog Aster grows best in part shade conditions.
When does Bog Aster bloom?: Bog Aster blooms in July, August, and September.
Where is Bog Aster native?: Bog Aster (Oclemena nemoralis) is native to CT, DE, MA, MD and 8 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
What pollinators does Bog Aster attract?: Bog Aster draws bees, butterflies, and beetles.
Is Bog Aster HOA-friendly?: Bog Aster is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Bog Aster? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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