Narrow-Leaf Aster
Sericocarpus linifolius
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, CT, DE, GA and 17 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Narrowleaf white-topped aster is a compact native perennial that produces clusters of small white daisy-like flowers from summer through early fall. This drought-tolerant plant forms neat clumps with narrow leaves and maintains a tidy appearance in sunny locations. It requires minimal care once established and provides reliable late-season color.
In an HOA neighborhood
Narrow-Leaf Aster takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Appears weedy to unfamiliar observers
- Goes completely dormant in winter
- Flowers are very small and may look unkempt
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees, butterflies, and beneficial beetles during the important late summer blooming period. Seeds provide food for birds in fall and winter.
Common questions
- How much sun does Narrow-Leaf Aster need?
- Narrow-Leaf Aster grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Narrow-Leaf Aster bloom?
- Narrow-Leaf Aster blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is Narrow-Leaf Aster native?
- Narrow-Leaf Aster (Sericocarpus linifolius) is native to AL, CT, DE, GA and 17 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Narrow-Leaf Aster attract?
- Narrow-Leaf Aster draws bees, butterflies, and beetles.
- Is Narrow-Leaf Aster HOA-friendly?
- Narrow-Leaf Aster takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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 Narrow-Leaf 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