White wood aster Eurybia divaricata
ABOUT
The common name of Eurybia divaricata is the white wood aster. This plant typically possesses a bushy, clump-forming character and is known for its horizontal, heart-shaped to triangular leaves that often have a toothed or serrated edge, which are dark green on the top and a lighter shade underneath. The stems tend to be wiry and highly branched, with a dark or reddish tint. During its blooming season, the white wood aster displays an abundance of small, daisy-like flowers with white to slightly pale blue or violet petals and a central disc that is usually yellow or sometimes red-tinged. These starry flowers are profuse, giving the plant a frothy appearance when in full bloom. The blossoms tend to arrange themselves in loose, flat-topped clusters, creating a delicate canopy of color. The plant's overall look is somewhat disheveled or wild, which contributes to its charm and makes it a favorite for naturalistic garden designs. Despite the exclusion of exact dimensions, it should be noted that the plant’s size allows it to blend nicely within a garden setting without overwhelming surrounding plants.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
White Wood Aster, Divaricated Aster, Heart-leaved Aster, Southern Heartleaf Aster, Heart-leaved American-aster
Common names
Aster divaricatus, Aster cordifolius var. divaricatus.
ToxicityTo humans
White wood aster (Eurybia divaricata) is not commonly known to be toxic to humans. There is limited information on the toxicity of this plant, and it does not typically pose a risk when touched or ingested in small amounts. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities could potentially cause an adverse reaction, so it is always prudent to exercise caution and avoid ingesting any plant parts unless they are known to be safe for consumption.
To pets
White wood aster (Eurybia divaricata) is not commonly known to be toxic to pets. There is limited information suggesting any significant toxicity to dogs, cats, or other domestic animals. As with any non-food plant, ingestion in large quantities could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the novelty and fibrous nature of the plant matter. However, it is generally considered to be of low risk. Owners should always monitor their pets to prevent them from eating large amounts of any non-food plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
Eastern North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Eurybia divaricata, commonly known as the white wood aster, is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, which are essential for the pollination of many plants and crops.
- Low maintenance: Once established, the white wood aster is drought tolerant and requires minimal care, making it a good choice for gardens with less intensive maintenance needs.
- Erosion control: Its root system helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion, especially in shaded or semi-shaded woodland areas.
- Shade tolerance: The white wood aster thrives in partial to full shade, making it an excellent addition to woodland gardens and other shaded areas where other plants might struggle to grow.
- Aesthetic appeal: With its starry white flowers and heart-shaped leaves, it can enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes, especially in late summer to fall when it blooms.
- Ecological support: It provides food and habitat for a wide range of wildlife, including insects and birds, contributing to biodiversity.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Eurybia divaricata, commonly known as the White Wood Aster, can be utilized in floral arrangements for its attractive foliage and star-like blossoms, providing a natural, woodland aesthetic.
- The White Wood Aster works well in shade gardens, helping to underplant and complement taller plants or trees with its lower, spreading habit that provides ground cover.
- The plant is beneficial for erosion control due to its mat-forming capability, with roots that help stabilize soil on slopes and in naturalized areas.
- The White Wood Aster is useful for restoring native plant gardens, as its presence supports local ecosystems and biodiversity.
- In crafting, the dried flowers of the White Wood Aster can be used in potpourri or other decorative dried flower arrangements.
- The plant's ability to thrive in shade makes it an ideal candidate for creating layered and textured effects in woodland-inspired landscape designs.
- White Wood Asters are effective in butterfly gardens; they attract pollinators, including butterflies and bees, which are crucial for the pollination of many other plants.
- Gardeners may use this plant to fill gaps and soften edges along walkways or patios due to its clumping nature and attractive foliage.
- The flowers of the White Wood Aster serve as a food source for native wildlife, including deer, which can help maintain the natural feeding patterns and habits of the local fauna.
- For educational purposes, the White Wood Aster can be used in schools or educational programs to teach about native plant species and their role within local ecosystems.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Eurybia divaricata, more commonly known as the White Wood Aster, is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe White Wood Aster is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Eurybia divaricata, commonly known as the wood aster, can thrive in various challenging conditions, including poor soil, shade, and drought. This has led to its association with resilience and the ability to overcome adversity.
- Diversity: The wood aster's ability to grow in various habitats symbolizes diversity and adaptability. It can represent the value of embracing different environments and situations.
- Longevity: With its tendency to bloom late into the fall, the wood aster represents endurance and longevity, showing vitality even as the seasons change.
- Modesty: Despite its beauty, the wood aster is not as commonly celebrated as some other showier flowers. Its symbolism extends to modesty and unassuming charm.
- Patience: As a plant that waits until late summer or fall to bloom, the wood aster represents patience and the reward of waiting for the right time to shine.
WaterThe Wood aster should be watered deeply but infrequently to mimic natural rainfall, ensuring the soil doesn't dry out completely. Aim to provide about an inch of water every week, which can be adjusted depending on rainfall and temperature conditions. During the growing season, especially in hot, dry spells, you may need to water twice a week. Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, as this can reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Ensure that the plant is in well-draining soil so that it does not become waterlogged.
LightWood asters thrive in partial shade to full shade. They are well-suited for spots that receive morning sun and afternoon shade or dappled sunlight throughout the day. They can tolerate some morning direct sunlight but should be protected from the intense afternoon sun to prevent scorching of the leaves.
TemperatureWood asters prefer temperatures that range between 50°F and 70°F, thriving in moderate conditions without extremes. They can survive minimum temperatures down to around 20°F but should be protected from prolonged freezes. Conversely, they can tolerate heat up to approximately 80°F, as long as they are in a shaded location and properly watered.
PruningWood asters benefit from pruning to promote bushier growth and more abundant flowers. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts by cutting back the previous year's growth to about 4 inches from the ground. Deadheading spent flowers during the blooming season can encourage continued blooming and prevent self-seeding if desired.
CleaningAs needed
SoilWhite wood aster prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 5.8 to 7.0. A mixture of loam, peat, and sand in equal parts can create an ideal environment for Eurybia divaricata.
RepottingWhite wood asters typically do not require frequent repotting. Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its current container.
Humidity & MistingWhite wood aster thrives in average room humidity levels. It is tolerant of a wide range of humidity conditions found in typical garden settings.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light, and keep the soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade with moist, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA.
Life cycleThe life of White wood aster (Eurybia divaricata) begins with seed germination, typically occurring in spring when soil conditions are moist and warm enough to trigger the process. The seeds develop into young seedlings, which then grow into vegetative plants with characteristic heart-shaped, toothed leaves. As the plant matures, it enters the flowering stage usually in late summer or fall, where it produces clusters of small, white to pale purple, star-shaped flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, these flowers transition to the fruiting stage, developing into dry seed-like fruits called achenes, which are then dispersed by wind or wildlife. These seeds eventually find suitable ground where they can remain dormant through the winter until the next suitable germination period arrives. The plant is perennial, so in addition to seeding, the root system will sprout new shoots annually, contributing to the spread and persistence of the species.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer
The most common method of propagation for Eurybia divaricata, commonly known as White Wood Aster, is through seed sowing. The best time to sow seeds for White Wood Aster is either in the fall, allowing natural stratification to break seed dormancy, or by sowing in spring after a period of cold moist stratification. To propagate by seed, you should sow them on the surface of a well-draining soil mix, as they require light to germinate. Maintain moisture in the soil without making it waterlogged, and place the container in a bright area without direct sunlight. Germination may take several weeks. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots before being planted out in their final position.
