Flat-topped aster (Aster umbellatus ) | Perennials | Plants

Flat-topped aster

Aster umbellatus

Common Name: Flat-topped aster
Genus: Aster
Species: umbellatus

Category: Perennials
Growth Rate: Average
Features: Good for wildlife, Long flowering period

Hardiness: Hardy	Height: 1.20 m (120 cm)
Sun/Shade: Full sun or Partial shade	Spread: 0.90 m (90 cm)

Foliage Type: Deciduous	Flower Colour: White, Yellow
Foliage Colour: Green	Flowering Period: August to October

Soil Type: Normal/Loam or Sandy/Light or Chalky/Alkaline
Soil Moisture: Moist, but well drained

Pretty white flowers tinged purple with yellow centres appear from the end of summer to autumn. The flowers are produced in flattish clusters hence the common name 'flat-topped aster'. They are one of the earliest asters into flower and each individual flower has petals which tend to curve downwards. A great plant that produces clumps of mildew resistant foliage and easy-to-pick flowers. Butterflies love them too.

Garden care: Stake with brushwood in early spring to support tall growth. Leave flower heads to dessicate through the winter when they will present an attractive garden silhouette. Also a rich source of food for some or our native birds. Apply a generous mulch of well-rotted garden compost or horse manure around the base of the plant in spring to encourage new growth.