Doellingeria umbellata (Flat-Topped White Aster)

An exceptionally rich pollinator resource among native asters, flat-topped white aster supports at least four named specialist bee species alongside its role as larval host for the Harris' Checkerspot butterfly - though its appeal to deer means young plantings benefit from protection.

Species Overview

Doellingeria umbellata (Flat-Topped White Aster) is an upright perennial boasting showy flat-topped clusters of white, daisy-like flowers with yellow centers in late summer to fall. Found in wet sandy sites including prairies, meadows, open woods, thickets, bogs, marshes, savannas, and creek banks, this species blooms earlier than most asters and spreads by both rhizomes and seed.

Application

• Wet meadow and bog-margin restoration
• Pollinator habitat plantings - exceptional bee diversity, including specialist species
• Naturalized plantings along creek banks and pond edges
• Larval host habitat for the Harris' Checkerspot butterfly

Growing Conditions / Specification Data

• Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Soil/Moisture Tolerance: Wet to moist, sandy soils
• Plant Type: Forb
• Mature Height: 4-8 ft. (some sources cite 3-5 ft.; see flags)
• Fall Color: Insignificant/None
• Bloom Color / Period: White, Yellow; July-September
• Wetland Indicator Status: FACW (Facultative Wetland)
• Native Range: Wide range across North America, including wet sandy prairies, meadows, and creek banks
• Hydrology: Moist-Wet
• Root Depth: Shallow (Under 12 in.)
• Salinity Tolerance: Low
• Growth Rate: Rapid
• Drought Tolerance: Low
• Flood Tolerance: Moderate - A moist meadow and wetland-margin species tolerant of periodically wet soil.
• Shade Tolerance: Intermediate
• Growth Habit: Spreading - spreads by underground rhizomes
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-7
• Deer Resistance: No (Frequently Damaged)
• Pollinator Value: Larval host, supports bees, supports specialist/oligolectic bees, supports butterflies, supports moths

Planting Guidance

• Deer, turkey, and rabbits browse the foliage - cage young plantings during establishment.