Features: The Western Silvery Aster (Symphyotrichum sericeum), formerly Aster sericeus, is a perennial wildflower that is most conspicuous in the fall when it flowers. It grows in open areas in wet prairies and oak savannah. The species has a distinctive, swollen, woody rootstock from which it sends up tall stalks (up to 70 cm) with leaves that are covered in fine hairs (hence the silver appearance). Flowers are pink or pale purple and become redder as they age.

Status: Endangered Provincially, Threatened Nationally

Range: The range of the Western Silvery Aster in central North America extends south from Manitoba to Texas and east to Indiana and Michigan. In Ontario, it grows in two areas in the Rainy River district on the south shore of Lake of the Woods, and on an island in the Lake. Range Maps

Threats: The Western Silvery Aster inhabits open habitats that are susceptible to succession from other vegetation. Cottage development is another potential threat.

Protection: The Ontario plants are on private and Crown lands. Western Silvery Aster is listed under Ontario's Endangered Species Act, 2007, which protects the species and its habitat. The Natural Heritage component of the Provincial Policy Statement under the Planning Act provides for the protection of significant habitat of endangered and threatened species. Ontario's Conservation Land Tax Incentive Program (CLTIP) will provide 100% tax relief to private landowners for the portion of their property (minimum size 0.5 acres) determined to be endangered species habitat. The CLTIP program recognizes, encourages and supports private land stewardship.

For more information on the Western Silvery Aster, view the fact sheet on the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources Species at Risk Website.

Text Sources: Semple 1988

Last Modified Date: July 2010