Symphyotrichum sericeum 100 Seeds - Silky Aster Heirloom Non-GMO Native Purple Pollinator Flower

Symphyotrichum sericeum, commonly known as Silky Aster, is a native perennial prized for its silky, silvery-green foliage and late-season purple blooms. This heirloom, non-GMO variety brings a soft texture to the garden and provides a valuable nectar source for pollinators when many other flowers have finished blooming. Its compact, clump-forming habit makes it an excellent choice for borders, native plant gardens, pollinator patches, and low-maintenance landscapes.

Silky Aster is adaptable and drought-tolerant once established, thriving in full sun and well-drained soils. The vibrant purple flowers appear in late summer to fall, creating a beautiful contrast against the silvery leaves. Whether planted en masse or mixed with other perennials, this native aster supports bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects while adding late-season color to the garden.

Plant Features

• Native perennial with silky, silver-green foliage
• Produces purple daisy-like flowers in late summer and fall
• Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
• Heirloom, non-GMO seeds
• Drought-tolerant and deer-resistant once established

Growing Information

• Botanical Name: Symphyotrichum sericeum
• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or rocky soil
• Water Requirements: Low to medium; drought-tolerant once established
• Growth Habit: Upright, clump-forming
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-8
• Bloom Season: Late summer to fall
• Mature Height: 12-24 inches
• Spacing: 12-18 inches apart

Planting & Care

Sow Silky Aster seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost or directly in the garden after the danger of frost has passed. Press seeds lightly into the soil surface; do not cover deeply, as light aids germination. Keep the soil consistently moist until germination, which typically occurs in 14-30 days at 65-70°F. Once seedlings have several sets of true leaves, transplant them outdoors after hardening off, spacing them 12-18 inches apart in a sunny location with well-drained soil.

Water regularly during the first growing season to help plants establish a deep root system. Once established, Silky Aster is relatively low-maintenance and drought-tolerant. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage additional blooms, or leave seed heads for birds. In late fall, cut back stems to ground level after the foliage has died back. Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring to maintain vigor.

What's Included

100 Symphyotrichum sericeum (Silky Aster) seeds.