Lava Aster
Ionactis alpina
Last reviewed: August 2026
Toxicity unknown
Lava Aster (Ionactis alpina) 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
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–12" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
CA, ID, MT, NV and 3 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
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 areaBrowse plants for this ecoregion
Alpine aster is a low-growing native wildflower that forms compact mounds of small leaves topped with daisy-like purple flowers from July through September. This drought-tolerant perennial thrives in full sun and requires minimal watering once established. Its neat, compact growth habit makes it suitable for rock gardens, borders, and xeriscaping.
In an HOA neighborhood
Lava Aster is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The summer blooms attract native bees and butterflies, providing nectar during the peak growing season. Its compact size makes it ideal for pollinator gardens in smaller spaces.
Common questions
- How much sun does Lava Aster need?
- Lava Aster grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Lava Aster bloom?
- Lava Aster blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is Lava Aster native?
- Lava Aster (Ionactis alpina) is native to CA, ID, MT, NV and 3 more states, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Lava Aster attract?
- Lava Aster draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Lava Aster HOA-friendly?
- Lava Aster is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Lava Aster? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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