Eurybia divaricata

Where growing in abundance, white wood aster forms a knee-high groundcover that buzzes with pollinators in late summer. A variety of bees visit the sprightly white flowerheads, which produce both nectar and pollen. Drone bumble bees and next-years queens who are seeking mates often pursue their amorous encounters among the blooms. 

The plant has good tolerance for dry soils as well as shade, bringing beauty and wildlife value to tough growing situations. It often spreads to form an extensive colony, and has a very long bloom period, typically exceeding six weeks. 

White wood aster flowers earlier than other asters and goldenrods and is thus especially useful in a woodland-themed garden. As one of the few August flowers of the forest, it provides a lovely prelude to the arching blossoms of wreath goldenrod, a species which is also adapted to shady, rather dry environments.

References: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7.

Photo by Julie Slater.