Pronunciation (approximate): sim-fy-oh-TRY-kum seh-RISS-ee-um
Purple ray florets surround the central disk. Explore the photographs below, from flower details to the plant in its surroundings.
Silky Aster: purple flower heads on slender stems. Tap to browse the photo gallery.
Family Asteraceae
Life cycle Perennial
Blooms Late summer–fall
Height ½–2 feet
Habitat Dry sunny prairies, sandy or rocky slopes and glades
Bloom dates and size vary by region and growing conditions. Native status refers to North America.
Explore reported observations. Sightings are not a complete range map.
Dry sunny prairies, sandy or rocky slopes and glades. Look for flowers in late summer–fall; local conditions affect timing.
Include the flowers, lower leaves, stem and surrounding vegetation. A single close-up may hide useful identification features.
Purple ray florets surround the central disk.
Fine hairs give both sides of the leaves a silvery appearance.
Small alternate leaves line wiry, often arching stems.
Browse 6 photographs. Tap any image to enlarge it; use Load more photos for additional views.
Central Canada and central portions of the United States.
Observation maps show submitted records, not every place the plant occurs. Follow local access rules when visiting a site.
Practice recognizing Silky Aster, then explore other flowers in the guide.
Original photographs: Where’s Wildlife. Identification and distribution references:
References checked October 2026. Pronunciations are approximate guides; botanical Latin pronunciation varies.