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Flat-topped Aster
Flat-topped Aster
Flat-topped Aster
Seed Packet

Flat-topped Aster

Doellingeria umbellata
Also called parasol whitetop, this statuesque beauty has tall, strong stems artfully painted with a burgundy stain displaying upright clusters of gold-centered white daisies. It grows best in moist areas and is irresistible to diverse pollinators; it also hosts the caterpillars of the Pearly Crescent and Harris Checkerspot butterflies.
SKU #S1964
$3.50
Currently Unavailable
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Details
Approximate Seeds Per Packet
196
Lifecycle
Perennial
Perennial Hardiness Zone
3,
4,
5,
6,
7,
8,
9
Mature Size
2.5-6' h x 2' w
Sun
Full sun to partial shade
Soil
Regular, moist, well-drained
Season
Summer
Color
White ray petals surrounding gold centers
Features
Attracts Butterflies
Attracts Bees
Attracts Beneficial Insects
SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
Surface sow and press in lightly.
Sprout Time:
7-21 days after chill
Starting Indoors:
Stratify for 60 days for best germination results. Sow in a container, cover with a plastic bag and refrigerate, or mix seed with damp clean sand or vermiculite, bag, and refrigerate at 35-40°F. Check often for germination after 30 days and maintain a lightly moist medium. Transplant any seedlings as they germinate. After the chill period, sow into soilless media and keep at 65-70°F.
Starting Outdoors:
Direct sow in fall or earliest spring, or winter sow into pots in the shade, covered with a thin layer of clean sand and a wire screen to keep out mice and voles. Check for moisture at regular intervals.
WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
At last frost date.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
This uncommon Aster family member is also uncommonly beautiful, with large panicles of white daisy flowers with gold tufted centers. Pollinators flock to it, and it spreads by seed and underground rhizomes, making it an excellent choice for moist meadows, rain gardens, pond edges, and larger gardens. It is low maintenance, impactful in bloom, and handsome at the seed stage.
Final Spacing:
2'
Water Requirements:
Medium Water Use
Watering Details:
1" per week, more during especially dry spells.
Soil pH:
Acidic to neutral
Fertilizer:
Mix in 2" of compost prior to planting
Diseases & Pests:
No major problems.
Growing Guides Winter Sowing Guide
Access here