Doellingeria umbellata
flat-top white aster
Overview
Doellingeria umbellata, flat-top white aster, is a clump- to colony-forming herbaceous perennial in the sunflower family, formerly placed in Aster spp.. Erect, largely unbranched stems rise 24-60 inches (60-150 cm), occasionally to 7 feet (2.1 m), from short rhizomes that let stands spread into loose colonies. The lance-shaped leaves are 2-6 inches (5-15 cm) long, green, and arranged alternately up the stem. From midsummer into autumn, the stems are topped by flat or slightly rounded clusters 4-8 inches (10-20 cm) wide holding dozens of small heads, each with 7-14 white ray florets around a yellow disk that ages to purplish-brown. The flat-topped flower arrangement gives the plant its common name and separates it from the more open, branched sprays of many true asters. It grows in moist meadows, thickets, streambanks, and open woodland edges across much of eastern and central North America. The foliage dies back to the ground each winter. On rich, moist soils tall stems can lean or flop, especially after flowering.
Native Range
Native to eastern and central North America, from Newfoundland and Quebec west to Minnesota and south to Georgia. It grows in moist meadows, fens, thickets, and the edges of woods and streams.Suggested Uses
Used in rain gardens, pond and stream margins, moist meadows, and the back of native borders. Combines with other late-season perennials and grasses in pollinator and naturalized plantings.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height2' - 5'
Width/Spread1'6" - 3'
Bloom Information
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
white with yellow centerFoliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 4-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight