White Wood Aster (Aster divaricatus)

White Wood Aster is one of the first asters to bloom, brightening up the shade garden from late summer into fall. Numerous small daisy-like flowers with white petals and yellow centers are borne in loose clusters at the ends of the stems. Typically around 3’ feet high with an upright habit and spreading branches, the stems are slender and often reddish in color. The dark colored stems contrast beautifully with the white flowers, and the deep green foliage looks great all season.

Widespread throughout Eastern North America, White Wood Aster grows in woodlands, meadows, and along stream banks. This hardy, adaptable aster tolerates a range of soil types and growing conditions, and is an excellent choice for naturalized areas, woodland gardens, or mixed borders. Asters are particularly beneficial to late season pollinators when so many other flowers have finished blooming. The seeds are consumed by winter songbirds.

Attracts: 🐝 🐦
Light: part sun to full shade
Soil: dry, medium, or wet