How much sun does Modesty aster need?

Modesty aster grows best in full sun conditions.

When does Modesty aster bloom?

Modesty aster blooms in July, August, and September.

Where is Modesty aster native?

Modesty aster (Canadanthus modestus) is native to ID, MI, MN, MT and 3 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).

What pollinators does Modesty aster attract?

Modesty aster draws bees and butterflies.

Modesty aster

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Canadanthus modestus

Last reviewed: September 2026

Modesty aster (Canadanthus modestus) is a perennial forb native to ID, MI, MN, MT and 3 more states. It blooms in July, August, and September. The flowers draw bees and butterflies.

Toxicity unknown

Modesty aster (Canadanthus modestus) 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

medium

Size

18"–36" H × 18"–24" W

Bloom

Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

ID, MI, MN, MT and 3 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies

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Browse plants for this ecoregion

Coast Range Puget Lowland Marine West Coast Forest Northwestern Forested Mountains North American Deserts Northwestern Great Plains Northern Lakes and Forests

An upright perennial aster with broad leaves and showy purple-blue daisy flowers with yellow centers in late summer. Found in moist meadows and along the edges of open woods.

Growing Modesty aster

Grow Modesty aster in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 18 to 36 inches tall and spread 18 to 24 inches wide.

Wildlife value

Late-season blooms are an important nectar source for bees and migrating butterflies.

Common questions

How much sun does Modesty aster need?: Modesty aster grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Modesty aster bloom?: Modesty aster blooms in July, August, and September.
Where is Modesty aster native?: Modesty aster (Canadanthus modestus) is native to ID, MI, MN, MT and 3 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
What pollinators does Modesty aster attract?: Modesty aster draws bees and butterflies.

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

If something looks wrong

Common plant problems, and what to check first

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