Western silver aster
Symphyotrichum sericeum
Last reviewed: August 2026
Western silver aster (Symphyotrichum sericeum) is a perennial forb native to AR, GA, IA, IN and 12 more states. It blooms in September and October. The flowers draw bees and butterflies. It reads as an intentional, HOA-friendly planting in the right spot.
Toxicity unknown
Western silver aster (Symphyotrichum sericeum) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–18" W
Bloom
Sep, Oct
Native to
AR, GA, IA, IN and 12 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 445 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
Find rebates in your areaBrowse 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.
Growing Western silver aster
Grow Western silver aster in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 24 inches tall and spread 12 to 18 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
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, 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 AR, GA, IA, IN and 12 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
- 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 World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Western silver aster? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz