• The Purple-Stemmed Aster (Symphyotrichum puniceum) displays vibrant lavender-purple ray florets surrounding a golden-yellow center in this close-up view. The narrow, pointed petals radiate outward, creating a spiky starburst effect. The flowers stand out brightly against the deep green foliage, with hints of reddish-purple on the stems visible in the background.
  • A dense cluster of Purple-Stemmed Aster (Symphyotrichum puniceum) blooms fills the frame, their rich lavender flowers covering the branching stems. The narrow, grass-like leaves and reddish-purple stems are noticeable beneath the cloud of blooms. Each daisy-like flower glows with a golden-yellow center, catching the sunlight as they arch gracefully over the surrounding green foliage.
  • This image focuses on the striking foliage of the Purple-Stemmed Aster (Symphyotrichum puniceum), with long, narrow, lance-shaped leaves heavily flushed with red and purple hues. A few lavender flowers and flower buds peek out, while the reddish stems wind through the dense greenery, hinting at the plant's colorful name.
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Wild About Flowers

Symphyotrichum puniceum - Purple Stemmed Aster

Symphyotrichum puniceum - Purple Stemmed Aster

$5.50 CAD
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Purple-stemmed Aster is a tall, striking perennial that blooms from late summer into fall, producing clusters of bright violet, daisy-like flowers with golden-yellow centers. Its sturdy, reddish-purple stems contrast beautifully with lance-shaped green leaves, adding bold color and texture to moist landscapes. This hardy native is a vital late-season nectar source for bees, butterflies, and migrating Monarchs. Seeds feed small birds such as finches, and the plant serves as a larval host for several moth species.

Well-suited to wetland edges, moist meadows, rain gardens, and open woodland areas, Purple-stemmed Aster thrives in naturalized plantings and pollinator-friendly landscapes. Its towering height and showy blooms create a dramatic presence in large gardens and restoration projects. Due to its size and wind-borne seeds, it is best planted in spacious areas where its spreading nature is welcome. Moderately deer-resistant thanks to its coarse foliage and hairy purple stems, though new shoots may be browsed in spring.

Bloom Times & Plant Sizes

Important Information - The "Bloom Period" is an indicator of the time period within which the wildflowers will bloom and does not describe the time period that a single plant will bloom.  The "Sizes" listed are intended to be a general guideline to consult during plant selection. - Plant growth and bloom times will vary depending on geographical location & individual site conditions.

Edible & Medicinal Info Disclaimer

The Edible & Medicinal information on this site is for informational purposes only and should not be acted on without thorough research and professional guidance. We are not responsible for any adverse effects resulting from the use of or misidentification of plants.

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Plant Specifics

Seeds Per Pack

Seeds Per Package: 25

Light Conditions

  • Sun
  • Part Shade

Soil Conditions

  • Moist
  • Rich
  • Loam
  • Clay
  • Seasonally Moist

Height

  • 24" - 36"
  • 36" - 48"
  • 48" +

Width

  • Spreading

Bloom Colour

  • Lavender Blue
  • Purple

Month of Bloom

  • August
  • Septemeber
  • October

Vigorousness

  • Aggressive
  • Very Aggressive

Deer Resistance

  • Moderate

Features

  • Birds
  • Butterflies
  • Bees
  • Fall Color
  • Rural Spaces
  • Medicinal Properties

Chinook Exposure

  • Moderate

Distribution Info

Native to North America, Purple-Stemmed Aster is found across Canada in all provinces and NT, and in the U.S., it ranges from the Gulf Coast northward to the Great Lakes and northeastern states. This species thrives in moist to wet habitats such as swamps, wetlands, wet meadows, and along streambanks, often in open to moderately shaded areas.

Traditional Edible & Medicinal Info

Symphyotrichum puniceum used medicinally by some Indigenous groups, in infusions of roots or leaves used for fevers, colds, and respiratory ailments.