Aster ericoides ‘Snow Flurry’ is a low growing cultivar known for its dense hugging mat covered in small daisy like white flowers. Its fine textured foliage and carpet of blooms make it perfect for sunny borders, rock gardens, and native groundcovers.
Height & Spread: 4 - 6 in x 2 - 3 ft
Bloom Time: Early fall (September to October)
Light Requirements: Full sun is best for flowering and compact habit
Soil Preference: Prefers dry to medium, well drained soils; tolerant of sandy, gravelly, or poor soil
Watering Needs: Low once established; drought-tolerant
Deer Resistance: High; rarely browsed due to its tough foliage and aromatic qualities
NATIVE STATUS
Cultivar of a North American native species, Symphyotrichum ericoides (Heath Aster). The species is native to open prairies, dry meadows, and sunny slopes across much of the central and eastern United States.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Offers abundant nectar to fall migrating butterflies like Monarchs and Painted Ladies.
Bees
- Attracts many species of native bees, including sweat bees and mining bees that rely on late flowering asters for survival.
Other Insects
- Hosts beneficial insects such as hoverflies and parasitic wasps that help maintain pest balance.
- While not a primary caterpillar host, it provides key nectar and shelter in late season native gardens.
SPACING & LANDSCAPE USE
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to allow for natural spreading and mat formation.
Landscape Placement
- Best used at the front of sunny borders, in rock gardens, along walkways, or in native groundcover plantings.
- Its low spreading habit makes it a valuable filler between taller perennials or native grasses.
COMPANION PLANTS
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Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - upright native grass for contrast and fall color.
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Sedum ternatum (Woodland Stonecrop) - a native succulent for dry edges and textural pairing.
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Penstemon hirsutus (Hairy Beardtongue) - drought tolerant native with spring bloom.
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Coreopsis verticillata (Threadleaf Coreopsis) - fine texture and golden summer blooms.
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Bouteloua gracilis (Blue Grama Grass) - low airy grass with native charm and drought resilience.