Western silver aster
Symphyotrichum sericeum
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–18" W
Bloom
Sep, Oct
Native to
TX, OK, KS, NE and 1 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
A clump-forming perennial forb with narrow, silvery-hairy leaves and a profusion of small daisy-like flowers with violet-purple rays and yellow centers in late summer and fall. Prefers dry, well-drained soils in full sun.
In an HOA neighborhood
Western silver aster is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only, street edge.
- Can look informal or leggy by season's end if not cut back
Wildlife value
Host plant for pearl crescent butterfly.
Late-season flowers are an important nectar source for bees and butterflies, and the foliage serves as a larval host for pearl crescent butterflies.
Common questions
- How much sun does Western silver aster need?
- Western silver aster grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Western silver aster bloom?
- Western silver aster blooms in September and October.
- Where is Western silver aster native?
- Western silver aster (Symphyotrichum sericeum) is native to TX, OK, KS, NE and 1 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What butterflies or moths does Western silver aster host?
- Western silver aster is a larval host plant for pearl crescent butterfly.
- Is Western silver aster HOA-friendly?
- Western silver aster is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate 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 Western silver aster fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.