Is Bigelow's Tansyaster good for the Colorado Front Range?

Yes, Bigelow's Tansyaster is a well-suited perennial for Colorado's Front Range.

How far apart do I plant Bigelow's Tansyaster?

Space Bigelow's Tansyaster about 25 in apart for a faster, fuller bed, or up to 36 in apart for a looser planting.

Is Bigelow's Tansyaster hardy on the Front Range?

Bigelow's Tansyaster is hardy in USDA 4 to 8. The Colorado Front Range spans roughly USDA 4b to 6a, so it is well within range.

How much water does Bigelow's Tansyaster need?

It needs low water once established.

How long does Bigelow's Tansyaster bloom?

Bigelow's Tansyaster blooms for several weeks, a long-season performer on the Front Range. Bloom timing shifts a week or two with elevation and spring weather.

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Bigelow's Tansyaster

Machaeranthera bigelovii

Compiled by Nicholas Julia · Reviewed against CSU Extension & Plant Select® · Updated 2026-10-30

Bigelow's Tansyaster (Machaeranthera bigelovii) is a Colorado-native perennial suited to the Colorado Front Range. It matures to about 24 to 48 in tall and 24 to 36 in wide, needs low water, and prefers full sun. Late-season purple daisies, drought tolerant, reseeds; goldenrod companion.

Colorado nativeOn the CSU listlow water24 to 48 in tall and 24 to 36 in wideXeric / water-wise

Photos

Photo 1: Andrey Zharkikh from Salt Lake City, USA, Wikimedia Commons (CC-BY)
Photo 2: Andrey Zharkikh from Salt Lake City, USA, Wikimedia Commons (CC-BY)

At a glance

Will it survive here?

Hardiness zones: USDA 4 to 8
Water needs: low water
Sun: Best in full sun.
Soil: clay, loam, sandy
Soil pH: 6.5 to 8.0
Hail tolerance: high
Wind tolerance: high
Salt tolerance: moderate
Site uses: Slopes & erosion control

How big, what shape?

Mature size: 24 to 48 in tall and 24 to 36 in wide
Planting spacing: ~25 to 36 in apart

What it looks like, and when

Bloom time: late summer, early fall
Bloom color: purple
Bloom length: Long (several weeks)
Foliage: Deciduous

Who else benefits

Pollinator value: high
Deer: Not rated
Colorado native: Yes
Native ecoregion: shortgrass prairie, foothills

Also worth knowing

Fire rating: Not rated

Planting & establishment

Deep-water first season to establish, then minimal water needed.

Frequently asked questions

Is Bigelow's Tansyaster good for the Colorado Front Range?: Yes, Bigelow's Tansyaster is a well-suited perennial for Colorado's Front Range.
How big does Bigelow's Tansyaster get?: It matures to about 24 to 48 in tall and 24 to 36 in wide.
How far apart do I plant Bigelow's Tansyaster?: Space Bigelow's Tansyaster about 25 in apart for a faster, fuller bed, or up to 36 in apart for a looser planting.
Is Bigelow's Tansyaster hardy on the Front Range?: Bigelow's Tansyaster is hardy in USDA 4 to 8. The Colorado Front Range spans roughly USDA 4b to 6a, so it is well within range.
How much water does Bigelow's Tansyaster need?: It needs low water once established.
Is Bigelow's Tansyaster native to Colorado?: Yes. It is a Colorado native.
How long does Bigelow's Tansyaster bloom?: Bigelow's Tansyaster blooms for several weeks, a long-season performer on the Front Range. Bloom timing shifts a week or two with elevation and spring weather.