Aster thunderdome is a robust native perennial featuring vibrant purple daisy like flowers with yellow centers that bloom late summer into fall. It’s a magnet for pollinators and forms a full upright clump ideal for meadow or border planting.
Height & Spread: 24 - 36 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Late summer to fall
Light Requirements: Full sun to part sun
Soil Preference: Moist to average well drained soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; tolerates short dry periods when established
Deer Resistance: Moderate; may be browsed occasionally
Native Status
Native to eastern North America; valuable in native and pollinator garden designs.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Attracts Monarchs, Painted Ladies, and Pearl crescents seeking late season nectar.
Bees
- Visited by native bumblebees and honeybees for pollen and nectar.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to form a solid flowering clump.
Landscape Placement
- Great for pollinator meadows, cottage borders, and naturalized plantings seeking late season interest.
Companion Plants
- Solidago flexicaulis (Zigzag Goldenrod) - Adds late season yellow contrast under the purple blooms.
- Rudbeckia fulgida (Black Eyed Susan) - Offers early summer color and sturdy support in mixed beds.
- Monarda fistulosa (Wild Bergamot) - Brings fragrant lavender flowers that attract pollinators.
- Echinacea pallida 'Hulda Dancer' - Provides complementary height and similar habitat preferences.
- Phlox divaricata 'Blue Moon' - Offers spring color and shade tolerance in front of the clump.