Aster Flowers
Asters are fall-blooming daisies known for star-shaped blossoms in purple, blue, pink, and white. Often called Michaelmas daisies, they bring late-season color to gardens and bouquets and are also the traditional September birth flower. They attract pollinators and are widely used in mixed autumn arrangements.
Occasions & recipients
Find flowers by occasion
Best occasions
- September birthdays
- Autumn weddings and events
- Thank-you or appreciation
- Get-well soon
- Sympathy or remembrance
- Teacher appreciation
Suitable for
- Partners and spouses
- Close friends
- Family members
- Teachers and mentors
- Colleagues or clients
Color taboos
- All-white arrangements can be associated with funerals in parts of East Asia and Eastern Europe—use mixed colors for celebratory gifts.
- Purple can carry mourning connotations in some Catholic and Thai contexts—confirm recipient preference for formal events.
- Yellow flowers may suggest jealousy or separation in some Eastern European traditions—pair with other hues for romantic gifts.
- Very dark palettes may feel somber for hospital deliveries—opt for brighter mixes for get-well wishes.
Card messages
At a glance
Key details
Quick reference for habitat, gifting etiquette, and safety when choosing flowers for different occasions and recipients.
Use this section as a practical checklist: where they grow, how to present them thoughtfully, and what to keep in mind regarding toxicity and sensitivity.
Botanical info
Taxonomy
Family: Asteraceae; Genus: Aster (sensu lato; many North American species now Symphyotrichum/Eurybia); Common names: Aster, Michaelmas daisy.
Distribution
Native to Eurasia and North America; now widely cultivated worldwide in temperate regions with numerous garden selections and hybrids.
Conservation
Not CITES-listed. Prefer sustainably grown, in-season stems; avoid wild-collecting native species. Plant regional native asters to support pollinators, and source from certified farms to minimize pesticide impact.
Gifting & etiquette
Presentation etiquette
Condition stems by recutting at an angle and stripping submerged foliage; use clean vase and fresh flower food. Combine with dahlias, chrysanthemums, roses, grasses, and seed heads for seasonal texture. Refresh water every 2–3 days; keep away from ripening fruit and heat sources. For formal settings, avoid culturally sensitive color schemes (e.g., all-white outside of sympathy).
Ideal delivery time
Deliver in the cool morning, ideally when 30–50% of florets are open for best vase life. Peak seasonal availability is late summer to fall (August–October), making them perfect for autumn events and September birthdays.
Health & risk
Toxicity
Generally considered non-toxic to pets and people (mild gastrointestinal upset is possible if large quantities are ingested). Safe for most households compared with many other ornamentals.
Allergenicity
Moderate. As members of Asteraceae, asters produce pollen that may trigger hay fever in sensitive individuals; choosing tight buds, frequent water changes, and keeping arrangements away from sleeping areas can reduce exposure.
Meaning & taboos
Symbolism & color
Asters traditionally symbolize enduring love, patience, wisdom, elegance, and faith. As a September birth flower, they also convey new beginnings and appreciation, with purple tones leaning toward royalty and wisdom, white toward purity, and pink toward affection.
Growing & tools
Care & gear
Growing tips
Perennial for full sun to light shade; average, well-drained soil with consistent moisture. Pinch back shoots in early summer for bushier plants and shorter stature; divide clumps every 2–3 years. Space for airflow to limit powdery mildew; water at the base and avoid overhead irrigation. Hardy in USDA Zones ~3–8. Blooms late summer to fall and attracts butterflies and beneficial insects.
Recommended tools
- Pruning shears
- Hand trowel
- Plant supports or staking rings
- Soaker hose or watering wand
- Garden gloves
Symbolizes
- Enduring love
- Patience
- Wisdom
- Elegance
- Faith
- Remembrance