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Small White Aster

Symphyotrichum racemosum

Last reviewed: June 2026

Small White Aster (Symphyotrichum racemosum)
Photo: (c) Douglas Goldman, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), uploaded by Douglas Goldman

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

12"–36" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov

Native to

AL, AR, CT, DE and 25 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 area

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Small White Aster produces masses of tiny white daisy-like flowers from summer through late fall, creating a cloud-like display above narrow green foliage. This drought-tolerant native perennial forms neat clumps and provides reliable color during the hottest months when many other plants struggle.

In an HOA neighborhood

Small White 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 abundant small flowers attract numerous butterfly species and native bees throughout its extended blooming period. Late-season blooms provide crucial nectar when few other plants are flowering.

Common questions

How much sun does Small White Aster need?
Small White Aster grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Small White Aster bloom?
Small White Aster blooms in June, July, August, September, October, and November.
Where is Small White Aster native?
Small White Aster (Symphyotrichum racemosum) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 25 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Small White Aster attract?
Small White Aster draws butterflies and bees.
Is Small White Aster HOA-friendly?
Small White 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 Small White 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