Tansy-aster
Machaeranthera tanacetifolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, KS and 9 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Tansy-aster is a compact annual wildflower that produces masses of small, daisy-like purple flowers with yellow centers from June through September. This drought-tolerant native grows in a neat, bushy form and readily self-seeds to create natural colonies in sunny, dry locations.
In an HOA neighborhood
Tansy-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.
- Annual nature means gaps in coverage
- Self-seeding can appear uncontrolled
- May look weedy to traditional landscaping preferences
Wildlife value
The abundant blooms attract native bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects throughout the growing season. Seeds provide food for finches and other small birds in fall.
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 Tansy-aster fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.