White Wood Aster

White Wood Aster (Aster divaricatus)

White Wood Aster (Aster divaricatus) is a shade-tolerant, native perennial prized for its delicate white flowers and its ability to thrive in woodland settings. This hardy aster adds late-season interest to shaded borders, naturalized landscapes, and pollinator gardens.

Distinctive Features

White Wood Aster produces wiry, dark stems with heart-shaped, toothed green leaves that form a dense groundcover in shaded areas. From late summer to fall, it bursts into bloom with clusters of small, starry white flowers accented by golden-yellow centers, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Its airy, informal habit makes it a graceful addition to wild and naturalized plantings.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Prefers partial to full shade; tolerates dappled sunlight.
• Soil: Prefers well-draining, loamy or rocky soil; adaptable to various soil types.
• Water: Moderate water needs; tolerates dry shade once established.
• Humidity: Prefers moderate humidity; thrives in woodland settings.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-8, adaptable to various temperate climates.

Ideal Uses

• Woodland Gardens: Provides naturalized beauty in shaded landscapes.
• Pollinator Gardens: Attracts bees and butterflies with late-season nectar.
• Groundcover: Forms a low-maintenance carpet of foliage.
• Shaded Borders: Adds texture and movement to garden edges.
• Native Plant Landscapes: Supports biodiversity and local ecosystems.

Low Maintenance Care

White Wood Aster is an easy-care perennial that requires minimal upkeep once established.

• Watering: Water regularly in dry periods; tolerates occasional drought.
• Pruning: Trim back spent flowers to encourage prolonged blooming.
• Fertilizing: Benefits from compost or organic mulch in early spring.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally resistant to pests and diseases.
• Winter Care: Cut back stems in late fall or leave for winter interest.

Why Choose White Wood Aster?

White Wood Aster is a resilient, shade-loving plant that provides late-season blooms and supports pollinators in naturalized and woodland gardens.

• Delicate White Blooms: Starry flowers add elegance to shaded landscapes.
• Pollinator-Friendly: Provides essential nectar in late summer and fall.
• Drought-Tolerant: Thrives in dry shade once established.
• Low Maintenance: Requires little care and adapts to various conditions.
• Naturalized Appeal: Complements informal and native plantings.

For a graceful, shade-tolerant, and wildlife-friendly addition to any garden, White Wood Aster (Aster divaricatus) is an excellent choice.