Flat-topped Aster (Doellingeria umbellata)

Flat-topped Aster

Doellingeria umbellata

Flat-topped Aster is a tall, late-blooming perennial that grows 2 to 7 feet high, featuring clusters of small white flowers with yellow centers from late summer to fall. It thrives in moist meadows, wetlands, and woodland edges, preferring loamy or peaty soils. This plant attracts butterflies and bees, making it a valuable addition to pollinator gardens. It is commonly used in wetland restorations, rain gardens, and naturalized landscapes where it provides late-season nectar for insects.

Characteristics

Product Form	Plant, Seed
Type	Forb
Sun	Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Soil	Clay, Loam, Sand/Gravel, Peat, Calcareous
Moisture	Mesic, Wet
Average Max Height (inches)	60
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches)	24
Bloom month(s)	July, August, September, October
Bloom Color or Type	White
Dominance	Medium

Range Maps

Sowing Information

Sow seed onto a firm, weed-free seedbed. Hand-broadcast seed making two perpendicular passes for even coverage. If planting a mix, broadcast the grass component first and lightly rake/drag it into the top 1/8–1/4" of soil. Next, broadcast wildflower/forb seed and press it into the soil surface (with a roller/cultipacker or the back of a rake) to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. After seeding, apply a very light layer of clean, seed-free straw (or other weed-free, site-appropriate mulch) to reduce erosion and retain moisture without smothering seedlings. A good rainfall or thorough watering will help settle seed and mulch and improve germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.