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(Symphyotrichum sericeum)
Western Silver Aster (Symphyotrichum sericeum)
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Joshua Mayer
CC BY-SA 2.0
Image By:
Joshua Mayer
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Copyright:
CC BY-SA 2.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Joshua Mayer | License Type: CC BY-SA 2.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/ | Uploader: wackybadger | Publisher: Flickr |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Symphyotrichum sericeum, commonly known as Western Silver Aster, is a deciduous perennial herb native to the prairies and open woodlands of the Central United States and Canada. It typically grows to a height and width of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters). The plant features silky, silver-haired foliage and bears yellow-centered flowers with purple petals from late summer to fall, which are highly attractive to pollinators. The flowers are modest in size but can be quite showy when the plant is massed.
Western Silver Aster is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings. It is often used in prairie restorations, wildflower gardens, and as a border plant. This aster prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade and requires well-drained soil. While generally low maintenance, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions. It is not known for aggressive roots or significant disease issues, making it a reliable and environmentally beneficial addition to gardens.CC BY-SA 4.0
Western Silver Aster is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings. It is often used in prairie restorations, wildflower gardens, and as a border plant. This aster prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade and requires well-drained soil. While generally low maintenance, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions. It is not known for aggressive roots or significant disease issues, making it a reliable and environmentally beneficial addition to gardens.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb
- Height: 1-2 feet
- Width: 1-2 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Purple
- Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low, Medium
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Prairies and open woodlands
Other Names
Common Names: Silky Aster, Western Silver-Leaved Aster, Western Silvery Aster, Western Silverleaf Aster, Aster Soyeux
Scientific Names: , Symphyotrichum sericeum, Aster sibiricus, Aster sericeus, Aster argenteus, Virgulus sericeus, Aster montanus, Aster sericeus var. montanus, Lasallea sericea, Aster sericeus var. sericeus
GBIF Accepted Name: Symphyotrichum sericeum (Vent.) G.L.Nesom