You’ll think it is snowing in summer when White Wood Aster, Aster divaricatus, covers itself with starry white flowers. The blossoms transform into dusty rose, bringing more color. White Wood Aster begins blooming earlier than others, in late summer. An Eastern US native, it naturally grows in part to full shade. A tough beauty, it thrives in moist and dry soils. Also known as Eurybia divaricata.

Use White Wood Aster in woodland, cottage, shade, and even deep shade gardens. White Wood Aster makes an excellent ground cover. White Wood Aster tolerates harsh conditions and will grow in the challenging condition of dry shade under trees. It is good for naturalized areas and rain gardens. Grows 1-2.5′ tall, 1.5-2.5′ wide. Easy to grow, deer resistant.

Important butterfly and moth food source. It provides an important nectar source for pollinators. As a host plant, its foliage provides food and shelter for various caterpillars.

Plant in full sun in average to moist soil. If given a good home the plant will spread quickly. Pinching back stems a few times before July 4 will keep plants shorter. Although drought tolerant, for best results, water during dry spells and when plants are setting up buds and blooming.