Aster divaricatus, reclassified as Eurybia divaricata, is a graceful shade loving native perennial prized for its delicate white star like flowers that bloom in late summer and fall. Its dark wiry stems and loose airy habit make for a standout in naturalistic woodland gardens and pollinator friendly understory plantings.
Height & Spread: 1.5 - 2.5 ft x 1.5 - 2 ft
Bloom Time: Late summer (August to October)
Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade
Soil Preference: Dry to medium, well drained soils; tolerates clay and rocky soils
Watering Needs: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: High; deer typically avoid it due to coarse foliage and bitter compounds
NATIVE STATUS
Native to eastern North America, commonly found in dry woodlands, forest edges, and shaded slopes. It plays an important role in supporting shade dwelling insects and forming the structural backbone of natural woodland understories.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Attracts woodland butterflies such as Pearl Crescents and Question Marks, which use its nectar while laying eggs on nearby host plants.
Bees
- A magnet for native bees, especially small sweat bees and mining bees that rely on late flowering woodland species.
Other Insects
- Supports predatory insects like parasitic wasps and hoverflies, contributing to garden pest control and biodiversity.
- While not a primary host plant, it offers food and shelter to a wide array of beneficial species in shady ecosystems.
SPACING & LANDSCAPE USE
Spacing Recommendations
- Space plants 18 - 24 in apart to allow for soft clumping and airflow.
Landscape Placement
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Ideal for woodland gardens, dry shade borders, under deciduous trees, and native shade pollinator patches. Use it to provide seasonal contrast beneath taller shade perennials or as an edging plant in informal paths.
COMPANION PLANTS
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Heuchera americana (Alumroot) - foliage contrast and drought tolerance in dry shade.
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Polygonatum biflorum (Solomon’s Seal) - graceful arching structure and early bloom balance.
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Carex pensylvanica (Pennsylvania Sedge) - native groundcover that thrives in shade.
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Tiarella cordifolia (Foamflower) - spring bloom and woodland texture.
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Arisaema triphyllum (Jack-in-the-Pulpit) - unique form and early season vertical interest.