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Perennial

Golden Alpine Aster

Oreostemma alpigenum

Alpine AsterTundra AsterAnderson's AsterMountain Crown

Golden Alpine Aster is a charming mountain wildflower with purple daisy-like blooms centered with golden-yellow discs. This high-elevation perennial symbolizes alpine beauty and mountain resilience.

Plant Family

Asteraceae (Daisy family)

Blooming

Mid to late summer (June-September)

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Alpine Aster flower with purple petals and golden center
Alpine Aster flower with purple petals and golden center

Symbolism & Meanings

Key Meanings

Mountain Beauty
Resilience
Simplicity
Alpine Charm
Endurance
Natural Grace

Perfect For

Mountain celebrationsHiking commemorationsAlpine garden dedicationsRecognition of quiet strength

Color Meanings

Purple:Mountain majesty and spiritual elevation
Yellow center:Joy and optimism at high altitudes

Similar flowers: celmisias and tradescantias also share similar meanings.

Cultural Significance

The Alpine Aster represents the beauty and resilience of high-elevation ecosystems. Its ability to thrive in harsh mountain conditions while producing delicate purple and gold flowers makes it a symbol of grace under pressure and the rewards of perseverance.
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Botanical Information

Physical Characteristics

Flower Size: Solitary flowers with 20-30 narrow ray florets around a yellow center
Plant Size: 6-12 inches tall (15-30 cm)
Flower Shape: Daisy-like with single flower head per stem

Natural Habitat

Native to: Western North America, British Columbia to California, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Nevada
Habitat: Alpine meadows, tundra, lake edges, marshes, pine woods, fellfields
Climate: Alpine, Subalpine, Cold Temperate

Growing Guide

Sunlight

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Average to moist; needs summer water in garden settings

Soil

Well-drained, Rocky, Average to moist

Expert Growing Tips

1

Plant in well-drained soil to prevent root rot

2

Suitable for rock gardens where it won't be overtaken by larger plants

3

Provides food for pollinators including bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects

4

One of the smallest and most well-behaved asters

5

Can be grown from seed or division in spring or early summer

6

Grows naturally at elevations from 3,000 to 9,000 feet

Uses & Benefits

Ornamental Uses

  • Rock gardens and alpine gardens
  • Front of borders
  • Mountain meadow gardens
  • Pollinator gardens
  • Native plant collections

Frequently Asked Questions about the Golden Alpine Aster

where do alpine asters grow?

Alpine asters grow in high-elevation meadows, tundra, and rocky slopes across western North America — typically found between 3,000 and 9,000 feet elevation.

when do alpine asters bloom?

Alpine asters bloom from mid to late summer, typically June through September — their purple flowers with golden centers attract mountain pollinators.

how do you grow alpine asters?

Alpine asters grow best in well-drained, rocky soil with full sun — they need summer water and work well in rock gardens where they won't be crowded.

are alpine asters good for pollinators?

Yes, alpine asters are excellent for pollinators — they attract bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects with their nectar-rich blooms.

Available Colors

Purple
Lavender
White with purple tints

Quick Facts

Type:perennial
Family:Asteraceae (Daisy family)
Native to:Western North America
Blooms:Mid to late summer (June-September)

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