Michaelmas Daisy
Symphyotrichum lanceolatum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Symphyotrichum lanceolatum is a native North American wildflower that blooms from August through October across most US states. This adaptable perennial attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles with its small white daisy-like flowers.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Michaelmas Daisy as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–60" H × 18"–36" W
Bloom
Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 43 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Michaelmas daisy is a tall native aster that produces masses of small white or pale purple flowers in late summer and fall. This perennial spreads gradually to form colonies and can reach 5 feet tall in optimal conditions. The narrow leaves and upright growth habit create a somewhat informal appearance in the garden.
Growing Michaelmas Daisy
Grow Michaelmas Daisy in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 24 to 60 inches tall and spread 18 to 36 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Michaelmas Daisy takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Can appear weedy and unkempt
- Tall height may violate landscaping ordinances
- Spreads aggressively and may look untidy
Wildlife value
Host plant for pearl crescent butterfly, painted lady butterfly.
This plant is excellent for late-season pollinators when few other flowers are available, attracting bees, butterflies, and beneficial beetles. It serves as a host plant for some butterfly caterpillars and provides seeds for birds in fall and winter.
Common questions
- When does Symphyotrichum lanceolatum bloom?
- Symphyotrichum lanceolatum blooms from August through October, providing late-season nectar when many other flowers have finished.
- What pollinators visit Symphyotrichum lanceolatum?
- This native aster attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles. It serves as an important late-season nectar source for migrating monarch butterflies and other pollinators preparing for winter.
- Where is Symphyotrichum lanceolatum native?
- Symphyotrichum lanceolatum is native to most US states from coast to coast, including all regions except Hawaii and Alaska. It grows naturally in prairies, meadows, and disturbed areas.
- What growing conditions does Symphyotrichum lanceolatum prefer?
- This adaptable native thrives in full sun to partial sun and tolerates a wide range of moisture conditions from dry to wet soils. It often spreads by rhizomes to form colonies.
- Is Michaelmas Daisy toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Michaelmas Daisy as toxic to livestock.
- Is Michaelmas Daisy HOA-friendly?
- Michaelmas Daisy 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 Michaelmas Daisy? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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