Aster alpina - Alpine Aster

Alpine Aster is a hardy, early-blooming perennial that brings a welcome burst of color to alpine meadows, rocky slopes, and open grasslands. Its pale pink, daisy-like flowers with golden centers bloom from late spring into early summer, standing out against low, tufted green foliage. The blooms provide an important nectar source for bees and butterflies emerging after winter, including Painted Lady butterflies.

Thriving in well-drained sandy or gravelly soils, Alpine Aster is drought-tolerant once established and ideal for small spaces, rock gardens, alpine plantings, and naturalized landscapes. It flourishes in montane and sub-alpine environments, withstanding cold, wind, and nutrient-poor soils. While not a preferred food source, occasional browsing may occur, though its low-growing habit and clumping nature help it recover easily.