Fauna
Plant

Western Mountain Aster

Symphyotrichum spathulatum

Also known as Spatulate Aster

Western mountain aster brightens montane and subalpine meadows across western North America with dense clusters of violet-rayed, golden-centered flowerheads. Spreading steadily through underground rhizomes, it often forms low colonies along damp stream margins, aspen stands, and open conifer forest borders. These late-season blooms provide a critical pulse of nectar and pollen for bumblebees, hoverflies, and butterflies preparing for autumn diapause.

WildflowerPollinator FavoriteMontane
Western Mountain Aster reference1 / 7
(c) Matt Berger, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Matt Berger · cc-by
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Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyAutotrophic (photosynthetic)
Predators
  • Mule Deer
  • Elk
  • Grasshoppers
ThreatsMeadow overgrazing, hydrological alteration, and invasive plant competition
HabitatsMontane meadows, subalpine openings, stream banks, and moist coniferous woodlands
Life spanPerennial (several decades via clonal rhizomes)
Classification
  1. FamilyAsteraceae
  2. SpeciesSymphyotrichum spathulatum
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
  • Meadow Etiquette: Stick to designated trails when exploring subalpine meadows to prevent soil compaction around fragile root systems.
  • Macro Photography: Early mornings offer calm winds and active bumblebees basking on open flower disks.
Related species
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