Aster divaricatus

Aster divaricatus, also known as Eurybia divaricata, is native to woodland gardens and dappled shade. Spreading through rootstocks, it quickly forms loose and spreading clumps, adorned with broad foliage for an aster. In late summer, this perennial is covered with loose clusters of small white flowerheads. Very hardy and easy to grow, it is the perfect plant for wild gardens.

Aster divaricatus belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to the Appalachians and clearings in Canada (eastern North America). This perennial exhibits a spreading and open habit, forming loose clumps from spring onwards. It will reach a height of 50cm (20in) when flowering, and spread over 50cm (20in), with rapid growth. The abundant flowering takes place in September and October. The inflorescence is a head with white ligulate peripheral flowers. The central flowers (the heart) are bright yellow. Together, they form delicate clusters composed of countless small white flowers. This aster is a deciduous perennial with sturdy and branching stems, dark mahogany in colour. The leaves are broad at the base, pointed at their tips, medium green, turning more purple in the sun and towards the end of the season. This plant quickly spreads through branching rootstocks that elongate and become woody with age.

It is impossible to imagine our homes without aster beds or borders. Aster divaricatus is particularly undemanding. It pairs well with all other plants in a flower bed, such as Salvia microphylla, Crocosmia 'Meteore', Rudbeckia triloba, or Aster cordifolius and its cultivars 'Ideal' or 'Little Carlow'. Its knotty branches, with a flexible and spreading habit, make excellent ground cover. It will thrive when planted in groups in large beds at the base of trees or bushes, but can also be combined with other robust shade-loving perennials: Ligularia dentata 'Desdemona', Trachystemon orientale. This plant is also an excellent cut flower.