false aster

Plant Type

Herbaceous Wildflower

Life Cycle

Perennial

Typical Size

3-5 ft. tall
2-3 ft. wide

Tolerant of

Occasional Flooding

Inolerant of

Dry Soil

Propagation

By seed, By division

Plant Propagation Notes

Cold moist stratification for at least 60 days. Surface sow to expose seeds to sunlight.

Plant Planting Notes

Easy spreader and can be aggressive in optimal growing conditions.

Plants/Diseases

No significant pest or disease issues.

Wildlife Benefits

Nectar/pollen source for pollinating insects

Leaves

Simple linear to lanceolate leaves arranged alternately along the stem.

Flowers

Usually white outer ray flowers with yellow disc flowers. Sometimes the ray flowers are pink or lavender.

Fruit

Achene.

Toxicity

No known toxicity.

USDA Hardiness Zones

3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Light Exposure

Full Sun, Part Sun/Shade

Soil Moisture

Moist

Soil Drainage

Well-drained, Poorly Drained

Soil pH

Neutral (6.0-8.0)

Native in South Carolina?

Yes

Plant Native Habitat

Cypress savannas, marshes, and ditches.

Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)

Secure (G5)

Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)

Not Listed

Distribution Notes

Uncommon in the coastal plain. Rare in piedmont. Unknown in the mountains.

Subspecies

Boltonia asteroides var. asteroides

Boltonia asteroides var. glastifolia

Boltonia asteroides var. latisquama