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Texas Aster

Symphyotrichum drummondii var. texanum

Last reviewed: June 2026

Symphyotrichum drummondii var. texanum (Texas Aster) is a native fall-blooming wildflower found across the south-central United States from Arkansas to Texas. This drought-tolerant perennial produces purple flowers from September through November.

Texas Aster (Symphyotrichum drummondii var. texanum)
Photo: John Michael / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

12"–36" H × 12"–24" W

Bloom

Sep, Oct, Nov

Native to

AR, KS, LA, MO and 4 more states

Pollinators

butterflies, bees

Texas Aster is a compact native perennial that produces masses of small purple flowers from September through November. This drought-tolerant wildflower grows in a neat, bushy form and provides essential late-season color when many other plants are fading. It thrives in full sun with minimal water once established.

Growing Texas Aster

Grow Texas Aster in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.

In an HOA neighborhood

Texas 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

This plant is a critical late-season nectar source for migrating butterflies and native bees when few other flowers are available. The seeds also provide food for birds through winter.

Common questions

When does Texas Aster bloom?
Texas Aster blooms from September through November, providing important late-season nectar when many other wildflowers have finished flowering.
Where is Texas Aster native?
Texas Aster is native to Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas in the south-central United States.
What pollinators visit Texas Aster?
Texas Aster attracts butterflies and bees with its fall flowers, making it valuable for supporting pollinators during their late-season migration and preparation periods.
How much water does Texas Aster need?
Texas Aster is drought-tolerant and thrives with low water requirements once established, though it can tolerate moderate moisture levels.
Is Texas Aster HOA-friendly?
Texas 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.

Does Texas Aster fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.