Quick answer: Pacific aster (Symphyotrichum chilense) is native to 3 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. No live listing of the true species was found as of 24 Oct 2026.
Photo: John Rusk from Berkeley, CA, United States of America, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun |
|---|---|
| Water | Dry-Medium |
| Soil | Clay or loam |
| Bloom | Bloom Jul-Oct |
| Height | 1-3 ft |
| Wildlife value | Late bees, butterflies |
Buying it
No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 24 Oct 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.
No live seed or plant listing found as of 24 Oct 2026. That means our last search didn't surface one — not that the plant is unavailable. Try a regional native-plant nursery.
Quick answers about Pacific aster
Where is Pacific aster native?
Pacific aster (Symphyotrichum chilense) is native to California, Oregon and Washington. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Pacific aster bloom?
Pacific aster blooms Jul-Oct. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Pacific aster need?
Light: Sun. Water: Dry-Medium. Soil: Clay or loam. Mature height: 1-3 ft.
Is Pacific aster good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Late bees, butterflies.
Is Pacific aster deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Pacific aster is drought-tolerant.
Where can I buy Pacific aster?
We haven't found an online listing of the true wild species as of 24 Oct 2026. A regional native-plant nursery or native seed company is your best source; ask for Symphyotrichum chilense by its scientific name.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Pacific aster.
- Seaside daisy Erigeron glaucus
- Tall Oregon grape Mahonia aquifolium
- Western blue-eyed grass Sisyrinchium bellum
- Globe gilia Gilia capitata
- Lewis' mock orange Philadelphus lewisii
- Miniature lupine Lupinus bicolor
Also listed under
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