Symphyotrichum concolor
perennial

Eastern Silver Aster

Symphyotrichum concolor

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate, drought-tolerant once established

Humidity

Prefers low to moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Symphyotrichum concolor, commonly known as the Eastern Silver Aster, is a perennial herbaceous plant with slender stems, narrow lance-shaped leaves, and clusters of small, daisy-like flowers featuring pale purple to lavender petals and yellow centers. This species is appreciated for its silvery foliage that provides a subtle contrast and its tolerance to a range of soil types, making it a popular choice for naturalistic and prairie-style gardens.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesVivid purple flowers attract pollinators and add color from late summer through fall.
Practical UsesDrought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for sustainable gardens.
Ecological BenefitsSupports bees and butterflies, enhancing local biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds about 1/8 inch deep in well-drained soil.
  2. Water regularly until established, then reduce watering.
  3. Place in full sun for best flowering results.
  4. Divide every 3-4 years in early spring to maintain vigor.
  5. Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  6. Prune back in late fall after flowering for tidy appearance.

Pro Tip

Allow plenty of sun and well-drained soil for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply during dry periods 🌱
  • Prune spent flowers to encourage rebloom
  • Divide every 3-4 years in early spring
  • Apply mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

  • Overwater in winter ❌
  • Avoid heavy fertilization which can reduce blooms
  • Don’t cut back in late summer 🌱
  • Ignore well-drained soil requirements

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Pest Check
Pinch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Pollinator-friendly bordersWildflower meadowsDrought-tolerant garden beds

Companion Plants

Echinacea Rudbeckia Coreopsis Lavender Sedum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Eastern Silver Aster questions

What zones can Eastern Silver Aster grow in?

Eastern Silver Aster is hardy in USDA Zones 5–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Eastern Silver Aster deer resistant?

Yes β€” Eastern Silver Aster is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Eastern Silver Aster bloom?

Eastern Silver Aster typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Eastern Silver Aster need full sun?

Eastern Silver Aster does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Eastern Silver Aster drought tolerant?

Yes β€” once established (usually after the first full season), Eastern Silver Aster handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Eastern Silver Aster with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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