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Cliff Aster Wikimedia Commons
Asteraceae

Cliff Aster

Erigeron compositus

Steadfastness.

Family
Asteraceae
Genus
Erigeron
Native to
Western North America
Bloom season
Spring, Summer
Type
perennial herb
Height
0.25-0.5 ft
Sunlight
full sun
Soil
rocky, gravelly, well-drained soil
Water
low
Hardiness
3-8
Lifespan
perennial

Did you know

  • Cliff aster thrives in crevices of rock faces and exposed ridges at elevations up to 12,000 feet in the Rocky Mountains.
  • The deeply divided, almost fern-like leaves form compact cushions that help the plant conserve moisture in harsh alpine conditions.
  • The genus name Erigeron comes from Greek meaning 'early old man,' referring to the fluffy white seed heads that appear quickly.
  • Native Americans used Erigeron species in traditional remedies for headaches and respiratory ailments.
  • Cliff aster is one of the first wildflowers to bloom at high elevations, sometimes emerging through late spring snowfields.

Color meanings

0

endurance

1

quiet strength

Uses

  • alpine rock garden
  • crevice garden planting