White Prairie Aster
Symphyotrichum falcatum (syn. Aster falcatus)
White prairie aster is a widespread and wildlife-valuable native perennial of western North American prairies and plains, producing clouds of small white daisy-like flowers with yellow centers from midsummer deep into autumn — one of the most important late-season nectar sources in the native plant garden.
Asteraceae (Daisy family)
Midsummer to late fall (July–November), one of the longest-blooming native asters; exact timing varies by variety and elevation
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: asters and succulent (echeveria)s also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Prairie asters carry the long-standing symbolic meaning of "afterthought" from the Victorian language of flowers — a meaning that paradoxically understates their enormous ecological importance as the last great flowering of the prairie season. The name "aster" derives from the Greek word for star, and white prairie aster's small white star-shaped blooms carpeting the autumn landscape have made it a beloved emblem of the season's graceful end. It is also one of the most critical late-season nectar plants in North America, sustaining migrating monarch butterflies and native bees preparing for winter.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; best flowering and most compact growth in full sun
Water
Low to moderate; highly drought-tolerant once established; thrives in dry prairie and grassland conditions
Soil
Sandy, Gravelly, Loamy, Well-drained, Dry to moderately moist, Alkaline to neutral
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in well-drained soil in full sun — tolerates a wide range of soils including poor, dry, and rocky conditions
The rhizomatous var. commutatum can spread assertively — leave room or use edging to contain it in formal settings
Leave flower heads and stems standing through winter — the seed heads are a critical food source for overwintering songbirds
Divide clumps every 3–4 years in spring to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding
Excellent companion for big bluestem, little bluestem, prairie dropseed, and other native grasses in a prairie planting scheme
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Prairie, meadow, and naturalistic garden plantings
- Late-season color in native plant and wildlife borders
- Pollinator and butterfly gardens — outstanding late-season nectar source
- Naturalizing and ground cover on sunny, dry slopes
- Companion planting with grasses and late-season prairie forbs
Traditional Uses
- The Zuni people traditionally used white prairie aster combined with other herbs as a wash for infants, believing it strengthened hair and promoted healthy growth
- Some related Symphyotrichum species were used by various Indigenous peoples as topical applications and herbal teas for respiratory and rheumatic complaints
- White prairie aster itself has no widely documented formal medicinal application beyond traditional Indigenous uses
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the White Prairie Aster
What does white prairie aster symbolize?
White prairie aster symbolizes patience, endurance, and faithful beauty — the quiet grace of a plant that blooms long after most others have finished. In the Victorian language of flowers, asters generally carry the meaning of "afterthought" or patient love.
What is the difference between white prairie aster and heath aster?
White prairie aster (Symphyotrichum falcatum) and heath aster (Symphyotrichum ericoides) are closely related species in the same section of the genus. White prairie aster tends to have larger flower heads with more ray florets and is more common in western North America; heath aster is more widespread eastward and has smaller, more densely packed flowers. They are sometimes confused in the field.
Is white prairie aster good for monarch butterflies?
Yes — white prairie aster is an important late-season nectar source for migrating monarch butterflies, which need to refuel during their autumn journey south. It is also critical for native bees and other pollinators preparing for winter, making it one of the most ecologically valuable native plants for late-season wildlife gardening.
Does white prairie aster spread aggressively?
The rhizomatous variety (var. commutatum) can spread assertively and form large colonies, which is desirable in naturalized prairie plantings but may need containment in formal border settings. The clump-forming variety (var. falcatum) is less spreading. Division every 3–4 years keeps plants vigorous and manageable.
When should I plant white prairie aster?
Plant white prairie aster in spring or early autumn. It establishes readily from nursery transplants. If starting from seed, cold-stratify for 4–6 weeks before spring sowing. It is very adaptable to a wide range of well-drained soils and thrives in full sun to light shade.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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