Eurybia divaricata 'Eastern Star'

Eurybia divaricata 'Eastern Star': White Stars on Black Stems

Shiny mahogany stems, heart-shaped leaves and a sprinkle of white daisies whose centres blush rosy red as they age. 'Eastern Star' is the polished, compact take on a woodland favourite. DRY SHADE NEVER LOOKED SO DRESSED UP.

Plant Characteristics:

• Botanical Name: Eurybia divaricata 'Eastern Star' (formerly Aster divaricatus)
• Common Name: White Wood Aster
• Height: 30–45 cm (1–1.5 ft)
• Spread: 30–45 cm (1–1.5 ft)
• Flowers: Small white daisies, up to about 2 cm (3/4 in) across, with yellow centres that age to rosy red
• Bloom Time: Late summer to fall (August to October)
• Foliage: Dark green, heart-shaped, toothed leaves on shiny mahogany stems
• Features: Tolerates dry shade once established

Where to Plant: Its compact size makes it easy to place at the front of a shade border or along a woodland path. It's a strong choice for the dry, rooty soil under mature trees, where many perennials sulk.

Companion Plants: Brunnera 'Sea Heart' opens blue flowers in April and May, long before the asters bloom. Astilbe 'Bressingham Beauty' rises to 90 to 100 cm with pink plumes in July and August. Hosta Shadowland® 'Autumn Frost' stays low at 30 cm with lavender flowers in July and August. All three love shade or part sun.

Plant Care: Plant in part shade to full shade in average, well-drained soil. Water regularly in its first season. Once established it handles dry spells and dry shade well. Avoid soggy clay, which can lead to root problems. Cut stems back after flowering if you don't want seedlings, since seedlings won't match the parent. Otherwise, cut to the ground in late fall or early spring. Divide in spring every few years to refresh the clump or to share.

History: 'Eastern Star' was originally collected from coastal Rhode Island and chosen for its compact habit and heavy flowering, even in full shade. Its parent species, white wood aster, is native to eastern North America, from the Appalachians north into southern Ontario and Quebec.

Final Thoughts: Tuck it along a shady path and let it twinkle into fall. THE DEER CAN ADMIRE IT FROM A DISTANCE.