Flat-topped Aster

Flat top aster (Doellingeria umbellata), proposed by Akène

?? A majestic, floriferous aster, essential for biodiversity ??

The umbellate aster is one of the most imposing asters in Quebec , reaching up to 1.75 meters in height . It is distinguished by its dense clusters of white flowers with golden hearts , which bloom from July to September and attract a multitude of pollinators , such as butterflies, bees and other pollinating insects .

?? Adapted to humid and well-drained environments , this aster grows naturally along shorelines, in wetlands and at the edges of forests . It stabilizes soils thanks to its dense root network , thus helping to prevent erosion while enriching local biodiversity.

?? Tip: The umbel aster tends to become bare at the base . It is therefore preferable to grow it in a clump or accompanied by other plants to hide the lower stems .

Characteristics of the variety

?? Flowering : July to September
?? Height : 175 cm
?? Spacing : 60 cm
?? Exposure : Sun
?? Life cycle : Perennial
?? Soil type : Silty to clayey
?? Soil moisture content : Medium to moist
?? Deer Resistance : High
?? Seeds per packet : 300

Sowing and cultivation

?? Sowing depth : 3 mm
?? Germination time : 15 to 20 days
?? Cold stratification : 60 days
? Scarification : Not required

?? Indoor method (recommended for optimal germination) :
1?? Mix the seeds with three parts moist vermiculite and place them in an airtight bag in the refrigerator for 60 days .
2?? After stratification, sow the seeds 3 mm deep in light, well-drained potting soil.
3?? Maintain constant humidity until germination (15 to 20 days).
4?? Transplant into the garden after the last frosts.

?? Outdoor method :
?? Sow directly in the fall for natural stratification during the winter.
?? Ensure moist soil until seedlings are established .

?? Pinch out young stems early in the season to encourage denser growth and avoid the need for staking .

Ecological roles and utilities

?? A refuge for pollinators : Its nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects .
?? A resource for wildlife : Its seeds feed certain birds in the fall.
?? A soil stabilizer : Ideal for banks, ditches and areas prone to erosion .
?? A late nectar supply : Essential for pollinators at a time when other flowers are scarce.

Uses in landscaping

?? Superb in flowerbeds or in naturalistic gardens .
?? Perfect for wetlands and rain gardens .
?? Ideal in the background of flowerbeds thanks to its impressive height .

Companion plants

?? Joe Pye Weed, Goldenrod, Blue Flag, Swamp Milkweed

Enemy plants

?? None known

Why grow the umbel aster?

?? A native aster with large clusters of white flowers
?? A major ecological asset for pollinators
?? An ideal plant for wet soils and bank stabilization
?? Deer resistant and low maintenance

?? Add the Umbellate Aster to your garden for vibrant blooms and thriving biodiversity!