Plains aster

Machaeranthera bigelovii var. bigelovii

Formerly known as Aster bigelovii. Low water requirement; full sun to partial shade. Perennial with large showy multi-rayed purple flowers often seen blooming in masses during September and October, and to a lesser extent in spring and summer. Browsed throughout the season by deer and livestock. Found on dry, open areas, on shallow or gravelly soils in the upper elevations of the desert Southwest.