Michaelmas Daisy
Symphyotrichum pilosum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–48" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 30 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Michaelmas daisy produces clouds of small white flowers with yellow centers from late summer through fall. This hardy perennial forms upright clumps that can spread gradually and provides excellent late-season color when many other plants are finished blooming.
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 during growing season
- Tends to flop or become leggy without maintenance
- May spread aggressively and look wild
Wildlife value
The abundant small flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beetles during the critical late summer and fall period when nectar sources become scarce. This plant is especially valuable for migrating monarchs and other butterflies preparing for winter.
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.
Does Michaelmas Daisy fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.