Thrives in full sun and well-drained soils. Minimal maintenance needed—cut back in early spring if desired for tidiness. Divide every few years to refresh growth.
Native PerennialAster Hosts
Silky Aster
Symphyotrichum sericeum
$29.99
$34.99
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$10.00/plant
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$9.17/plant
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Sourced ecologically
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Easy Planting
My Home Park's Take
“Outstanding ecological value with excellent garden appeal; a strong choice where its space and management needs fit.”
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Fun factAster hosts
Details
Soil Types
Loam
Sand
Gravel
Soil Moisture
Dry
Medium
Sun Exposure
Partial Sun
Full Sun
Hardiness Zone
USDA 3–8
Plant Type
Flower
Mature Height
12”-12”
Mature Width
12”
Bloom Color
Purple/Lavender
Bloom Time
September - October
Root Type
Fibrous
About this Plant
Silky Aster is a small but striking prairie native known for its silvery foliage and rich purple flowers that bloom in early to mid-fall. The plant rarely exceeds 1–2 feet tall, forming a tidy mound well suited for rock gardens, dry borders, and tough sunny spots where few other natives thrive. Its foliage is covered in fine hairs, giving it a silky texture and bluish-gray hue that stands out against greener companions.
Its late-season blooms are a vital nectar source for butterflies and bees when few other native flowers are blooming. This aster's compact size and clumping habit make it easy to tuck into tight or dry spaces, especially where a splash of fall color and pollinator support is desired.
Why Choose Silky Aster?
- Compact, clump-forming shape—great for rock gardens
- Silvery, textured foliage adds contrast and interest
- Excellent drought tolerance once established
- Fall blooms support native pollinators
- Grows in sandy, rocky, or poor soils with ease
Details
Soil Types
Loam
Sand
Gravel
Soil Moisture
Dry
Medium
Sun Exposure
Partial Sun
Full Sun
Hardiness Zone
USDA 3–8
Plant Type
Flower
Mature Height
12”-12”
Mature Width
12”
Bloom Color
Purple/Lavender
Bloom Time
September - October
Root Type
Fibrous
Silky Aster
$29.99$34.99
Ecological Benefits
Attracts Pollinators
Provides nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators.
Attracts Butterflies
A nectar source that draws butterflies throughout the season.
Butterfly Host
Supports butterfly caterpillars as a host plant.
Drought Tolerant
Thrives with minimal watering once established.
Birds
Seeds or berries provide food for birds.
Pet Safe
Non-toxic to cats and dogs.
What Folks Are Saying
“It's like following a recipe. Choosing from multiple designs is fun.” - Kari

“The process from the website to getting the plants, could not have been easier or more seamless.” - Justin

“I can't believe that we are the house with this beautiful garden.” - Howard

“I've never planted anything in my life. And this was actually quite fun.” - Steve

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