Description

This little aster has a wide distribution throughout much of western Canada and the US. In California the western aster grows throughout the Sierra Nevada, transverse and peninsular ranges, usually at higher elevations. The form of the plant will vary depending on the conditions for the site. If kept dry, western aster forms an open patch of upright stems with spatulate leaves topped with lavender flowers of about an inch in diameter. The patch spreads by rhizome in winter and spring. With additional water western aster becomes much denser and flowers more profusely. A variety of soil types are accepted. As with other asters, additional water is key to an optimal appearance. Under dry conditions asters go largely dormant in the summer months.