Calico Aster
Symphyotrichum lateriflorum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Symphyotrichum lateriflorum (Calico Aster) is a native wildflower blooming September through November across eastern and central North America. This adaptable perennial produces masses of small white flowers that attract butterflies and bees.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Calico Aster as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
48"–60" H × 48"–48" W
Bloom
Sep, Oct, Nov
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 32 more states
Pollinators
butterflies, bees
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 411 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
Calico Aster is a tall native perennial that produces masses of small white flowers with yellow centers from September through November. The flowers age to pink or purple, creating a charming multicolored display that gives this plant its common name.
Growing Calico Aster
Grow Calico Aster in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 48 to 60 inches tall and spread 48 to 48 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Calico Aster is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- May flop without support
- Best in less formal zones
Wildlife value
This aster is exceptional for late-season pollinators, providing crucial nectar for butterflies and bees when few other flowers are blooming. It also produces seeds that feed birds and serves as a host plant for several butterfly species.
Common questions
- When does Calico Aster bloom?
- Calico Aster blooms from September through November, providing late-season nectar when many other flowers have finished.
- What pollinators visit Symphyotrichum lateriflorum?
- Calico Aster attracts butterflies and bees, making it valuable for late-season pollinator support.
- Where is Calico Aster native?
- This aster is native to most of eastern and central North America, from Maine to Florida and west to Minnesota, Kansas, and Texas.
- What growing conditions does Calico Aster prefer?
- Calico Aster is highly adaptable, tolerating full sun to partial sun and various moisture levels from wet to dry soils.
- Is Calico Aster toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Calico Aster as toxic to livestock.
- Is Calico Aster HOA-friendly?
- Calico 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 Calico 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