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Long-Leaved Or Intermountain Or Western Aster

Symphyotrichum ascendens

Last reviewed: June 2026

Long-Leaved Or Intermountain Or Western Aster (Symphyotrichum ascendens)
Photo: Robb Hannawacker / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)

Light

full sun

Water

medium

Size

12"–36" H × 12"–24" W

Bloom

Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AZ, CA, CO, ID and 8 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies

Western aromatic aster produces clusters of small white to pale purple daisy-like flowers from summer through fall. This compact native perennial forms neat clumps with narrow gray-green leaves and maintains a tidy appearance throughout the growing season.

In an HOA neighborhood

Long-Leaved Or Intermountain Or Western Aster is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.

  • May look sparse in early spring before full growth

Wildlife value

The late-season blooms provide crucial nectar for bees and butterflies when few other flowers are available. Seeds also feed small birds in fall and winter.

Common questions

How much sun does Long-Leaved Or Intermountain Or Western Aster need?
Long-Leaved Or Intermountain Or Western Aster grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Long-Leaved Or Intermountain Or Western Aster bloom?
Long-Leaved Or Intermountain Or Western Aster blooms in July, August, and September.
Where is Long-Leaved Or Intermountain Or Western Aster native?
Long-Leaved Or Intermountain Or Western Aster (Symphyotrichum ascendens) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 8 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Long-Leaved Or Intermountain Or Western Aster attract?
Long-Leaved Or Intermountain Or Western Aster draws bees and butterflies.
Is Long-Leaved Or Intermountain Or Western Aster HOA-friendly?
Long-Leaved Or Intermountain Or Western 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 Long-Leaved Or Intermountain Or Western 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