Native Asters for Ontario Gardens

Flat-topped White Aster (Doellingeria umbellata)

Sun-pt. shade, 1.5m/5ft, sand/loam/clay/gravel, dry to moist

Flat-topped White Aster is a striking native plant, known for its large, flat-topped clusters of white flowers that bloom earlier than most other asters, making it a great option for extending the bloom season of asters in your native plant garden. With its upright growth habit and impressive height, this species adds welcoming vertical interest and structure to naturalized gardens and restoration projects. 

Appearance and Seasonal Interest

Typical growth for this native perennial is between 3 to 5 feet tall but it can reach up to 7 feet in ideal conditions (moist, rich soil in full sun), making it one of the taller asters in Ontario. The spear-head like leaves add great texture and lush greenery to the garden. Flowering tems rise from the ground with an umbrella-like form and are topped with showy, flat-topped clusters of white flowers with bright yellow centers. The flowers mature into attractive fluffy seed heads that extend seasonal interest into late fall.

Growing Conditions and Care

Flat-topped White Aster thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers moist, well-drained soils. It is especially well-suited to areas with consistent moisture, such as along streams, wet meadows, or rain gardens. However, it can tolerate less-than-ideal conditions, including drier soils, once established. This species spreads both through colonial rhizomes and by seed, which makes it an excellent choice for naturalized plantings and ecological restoration projects. The strong, upright form of Flat-topped White Aster makes it a natural focal point in wildflower meadows or native plantings where it is best placed towards the middle or back.  Its vigorous spreading habit means it is likely not ideal for formal gardens or tight spaces. When designing your native plant garden, consider pairing Flat-topped White Aster with companions that can match is prolific spread and height such as Joe-pye (Eutrochium spp.), Blue Vervain (Verbena hastata), and Pink Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata). 

Ecological Benefits

Flat-topped White Aster is a powerhouse for pollinators, with its large flower clusters providing ample nectar for butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects. The flat-topped structure of the blooms makes them particularly attractive to butterflies, who use the broad landing pads to easily access the nectar.

White Wood Aster (Eurybia divaricata)

Part Shade - shade, 90cm/3ft, sand/loam, moist to dry soil

White Wood Aster is a charming and resilient aster that thrives in the dry, shaded understory of deciduous forests. Known for its elegant, pure-white flowers, this species brings brightness to shady gardens. It is a threatened species in Ontario, naturally occurring in only a few locations, primarily in dry forests dominated by Sugar Maples and American Beech trees. Adding this aster to your garden not only enhances its beauty but also supports the preservation of a rare native species. 

Appearance and Seasonal Interest

White Wood Aster grows 2-3 feet tall and features wiry, slightly arching stems with an open, airy structure. In late summer and fall, its stems are adorned with numerous small, flowers characterized by white petals encircling bright yellow centers, which gradually fade to a soft rust color as the seeds mature. Winter interest is minimal. These delicate flowers contrast beautifully with the dark green foliage and really stand out in the shade. The plant’s informal, naturalistic habit lends itself well to woodland gardens, cottage gardens and naturalistic plantings where its blooms can make a dramatic statement in the shade. 

Growing Conditions and Care

White Wood Aster is tough and adaptable, thriving in part to full shade, even in challenging conditions such as dry, rocky, or shallow soils. For optimal growth, provide it with well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Its ability to spread by rhizomes and seeds makes it an excellent choice for covering large areas, stabilizing slopes, or filling in beneath trees where competition for nutrients is high. Spread is usually not aggressive. Pair White Wood Aster with other forest floor species such as Wild Columbine, Virginia Waterleaf or Wild Ginger. 

Ecological Benefits

As a late-season bloomer, White Wood Aster offers vital nectar and pollen for pollinators such as bees, wasps, and butterflies at a time when pollinators need it the most. The seeds provide food for birds, while the dense foliage creates shelter for small wildlife. Its presence in gardens helps support biodiversity and contributes to the conservation of this threatened species.

Large-leaved Aster (Eurybia macrophyllus)

 Pt. shade - shade, 90cm/3ft, sand/loam/clay, dry to medium

Large-leaved Aster, is an indispensable flowering groundcover for shade gardens. It is adaptable to a variety of soil types, is easy to grow and spreads dependably but not aggressively. Large-leaved Aster works well in formal and natural gardens alike as a native alternative to invasive groundcovers. The large, lush leaves make a useful pollinator-friendly alternative to Hosta or Lamium. 

Appearance and Seasonal Interest

Early in the growing season, Large-leaved Aster carpets the ground with lush, bold, heart-shaped leaves. It grows dense enough to supress weeds once established. By late summer and into fall, clusters of light purple, daisy-like flowers rise on slender, lanky stems above the foliage, adding height and color to the garden. These blooms are arranged in flat-topped clusters and bring soft, whimsical beauty to the landscape as they sway in the breeze. Note that individual plants don’t flower every year. However, in a colony of plants, some will bloom each year, ensuring reliable flowering overall. The flowering stems typically reach around 2 feet tall, though they can grow up to 3 feet in ideal conditions. 

Growing Conditions and Care

Large-leaved Aster thrives in part shade to dappled shade, making it ideal for woodland gardens and shaded borders. It prefers average, well-drained soils but is highly adaptable, performing well in sandy, rocky or clay soils when organic matter is present. This plant is particularly well-suited for challenging areas, such as beneath mature trees like Norway Maples or Spurce trees, where other plants may struggle. Once established, it spreads non-aggressively via rhizomes to form a dense groundcover, helping to suppress weeds and stabilize soil. Minimal maintenance is needed beyond dividing clumps every few years to manage spread. Large-leaf Aster grows well with Bluestem Goldenrod (Solidago caesia), Bush Honeysuckle (Diervilla lonicera) and the finer textured leaves of sedges (Carex spp.) or ferns. 

Ecological Benefits

Large-leaved Aster is a pollinator magnet, drawing a diverse array of native bees and the occasional butterfly. Its late-season blooms provide much-needed nectar and pollen, making it a vital resource for pollinators. The dense foliage and spreading growth habit also provide excellent cover for small insects and wildlife, further enhancing its ecological value. 

Heart-leaf Aster (Symphyotrichum cordifolium)

 Pt. shade - shade, 90cm/3ft, sand/loam/clay, medium to dry

It’s all in the name - you’re going to love Heart-leaf Aster. It is a beautiful and adaptable native aster that is found naturally in deciduous forests, forest edges, and along gravelly trails. It even adapts to meadows if the surrounding vegetation offers some protection from intense sunlight. With its late-season blooms that persist into November, Heart-leaf Aster is one of the latest blooming native plants, plays a vital role in supporting pollinators before winter. 

Appearance and Seasonal Interest

This aster takes its name from the heart-shaped basal leaves that provide visual interest early in the growing season. The flowering stems grow 1 to 3 feet tall and are loaded with clusters of light blue to lavender flowers with yellow centers. They bloom in profusion, sometimes weighing down the stems enough so that they arch over. Flowers mature into fluffy seeds heads. Winter interest is minimal. As one of Ontario’s latest-blooming asters, Heart-leaf Aster is particularly cherished for adding color and life to gardens well into the autumn months, brightening the landscape when many other plants have faded. 

Growing Conditions and Care

Heart-leaf Aster thrives in part shade to full shade and prefers average, well-drained soils with some organic matter. While it tolerates a variety of soil types, including gravelly or rocky substrates, it benefits from consistent moisture. It will tolerate part sun granted the soil doesn’t go too dry. 

This aster spreads slowly via rhizomes but can self-seed prolifically in bare soil. Plant your garden densely to mitigate this. Its self-seeding can be used to your advantage in naturalization projects.  Use it to soften the transition between woodland and meadow plantings, where its light blue flowers will shine in the dappled light. Pair Heart-leaf Aster with other shade-loving natives like Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense), Foamflower (Tiarella cordifolia), and Large-leaved Aster (Eurybia macrophyllus). 

Ecological Benefits

Heart-leaf Aster is a powerhouse for biodiversity. Its late-season flowers provide crucial nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators during a time when few other plants are in bloom. The seeds that follow are a food source for birds.

Heath Aster (Symphyotrichum ericoides)

 Sun - light shade, 90cm/3ft, sand/loam/gravel, dry - average soil

Heath Aster is a compact, drought-tolerant perennial that thrives in the driest and most challenging conditions. Native to meadows, prairies, alvars, and dunes, this hardy aster is a perfect solution for sandy, rocky, or gravelly soils where other plants struggle. Its dense sprays of small, white, daisy-like flowers create a stunning visual impact, particularly when planted in masses. Heath Aster is a must-have for gardeners seeking a solution to that hot, dry, sunny spot. 

Appearance and Seasonal Interest

This low-growing aster typically reaches 1 to 3 feet tall but may exceed this in rich soils, becoming floppy. From late summer into fall, it bursts into bloom with abundant clusters of tiny, white flowers featuring yellow centers that mature into fluffy brown seed heads. The flowers may be small but they form dense,conical clusters along the stems, creating a cloud-like effect. The leaves are very small, giving it a fine-textured almost heath-like appearance. The plant’s foliage remains green and tidy throughout the growing season, complementing its profuse floral display. 

Growing Conditions and Care

Heath Aster thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, making it ideal for dry, sandy, rocky, or gravelly conditions. It tolerates average garden soils as long as they are not overly rich or prone to waterlogging. In its natural habitats, Heath Aster often grows with minimal competition from taller plants, so it appreciates similar conditions in the garden. Note that it may suffer from a reduced lifespan in rich or moist soils. It maintains a clumping habit but can self-seed prolifically in bare soil. Mitigate this by planting your garden densely. Pair Heath Aster with other drought-tolerant species like Mountain Mint (Pycnanthemum virginianum), Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), and Wild Lupine (Lupinus perennis). 

Ecological Benefits

Heath Aster’s late-season blooms provide an essential nectar and pollen source for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators as they prepare for winter. Birds also benefit from its seeds, which they feed on during the colder months. Its compact growth habit and dense flowers create shelter and habitat for small wildlife, contributing to the ecological health of your garden.

Smooth Blue Aster (Symphyotrichum laeve)

  Sun - light shade, 120cm/4ft, sand/loam/clay, dry to average soil

Smooth Blue Aster is a tough, dependable native plant that brings a resplendent blue colour to the late season garden. Known for its frost-hardy flowers, this aster often blooms well into early November, making it one of the last sources of color and nectar in the fall landscape. Its upright, bushy form and profuse lavender-blue blooms make it a standout in both naturalized and urban settings. 

Appearance and Seasonal Interest

Smooth Blue Aster stands upright, reaching about 4-5 ft tall and is easily identified by its smooth, blue-green foliage, which remains attractive throughout the growing season, although the lower leaves may fall off by late summer or during dorughts. The tops of it stems are adorned with soft lavender-blue flowers with sunny yellow centers. These blooms mature into fluffy seed heads in the fall. These blooms persist through light frosts, providing beauty and ecological value as the season winds down. The tall, upright stature of Smooth Blue Aster make it ideal for seasonal blooms in borders, meadow gardens, and boulevard plantings.  

Growing Conditions and Care

Smooth Blue Aster is adaptable, thriving in full sun and preferring well-drained soils, although it can tolerate a variety of conditions, including drought and moderate salinity. It is most floriferous in full sun but can tolerate light shade. Smooth Blue Aster is particularly well-suited to boulevard and roadside gardens thanks to its tolerance for urban stressors like road salt and dry conditions. It maintains a clumping habit but may self-seed prolifically in bare soils. Note that it may become floppy or have a reduced lifespan in rich soils or without sufficient root competition from surrounding plants. Plant your garden densely or pinch back the stems in early summer to prevent flopping. While this aster is relatively low-maintenance, be mindful of its appeal to rabbits and deer. Consider using protective measures like fencing for the first couple years in the ground or planting it among less palatable species. Once established, it will bounce back quickly from deer or rabbit browsing. Pairs well with other dry meadow or prairie species such as Black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia hirta), Indian Grass (Sorghastrum nutans) and Stiff Goldenrod (Solidago rigida). 

Ecological Benefits

Smooth Blue Aster is an essential late-season resource for pollinators. Its nectar-rich flowers are particularly popular with bumblebees and other native bees, as well as butterflies preparing for migration or overwintering. The seeds that follow are a valuable food source for birds.

Panicled Aster (Symphyotrichum lanceolatum)

 Sun - pt. shade, 1.5m/5ft, most soils types, medium to wet

Panicled Aster is a tall, profusely blooming native plant that lights up the fall landscape with sprays of delicate white flowers. It is highly adaptable and care-free although its spread can be an issue in some situations. Unlike some more compact asters, this species has an open, spreading form, making it ideal for naturalized plantings or natural garden designs. 

Appearance and Seasonal Interest

This aster's sprays of small, white, daisy-like flowers create a cloud-like effect when in bloom, often lasting well into autumn. The stems are adorned with narrow, lance-shaped green leaves that curl characteristically as they dry in fall, making Panicled Aster easy to identify even at the end of the season. The open, branching habit of Panicled Aster gives it a loose, airy appearance, allowing it to mingle well with other native perennials. 

Growing Conditions and Care

Panicled Aster thrives in full sun and fertile soils but is adaptable to part shade and average moisture conditions so feel free to experiment with its adaptability. It is particularly resilient, growing well even in challenging spots like under the canopy of large Sugar Maples (Acer saccharum), where its spread is naturally limited along with its height. This species spreads vigorously via rhizomes and, to a lesser extent, by seed. In small gardens, this tendency to colonize can be overwhelming, making it better suited for larger spaces, naturalized gardens, or restoration projects where its ability to spread can be an asset. 

Ecological Benefits

Panicled Aster is a magnet for a variety of pollinators, including native bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Its late-season blooms are a crucial food source as pollinators prepare for winter. Birds also benefit from the seeds, making it a valuable addition to wildlife-friendly landscapes.

Calico Aster (Symphyotrichum lateriflorum)

Pt. shade - sun, 90cm/3ft, sand/loam/clay, moist - dry 

Calico Aster is one of Ontario’s most abundant native aster species, thriving in a variety of habitats, including forest edges, open woodlands, and meadows making it a very versatile choice in the garden. It is valued for its profusion of calico-coloured fall blooms that cascade down its arching stems. Its copious blooms are not only great for your garden but bloom late into the fall to keep pollinators well-fed.  

Appearance and Seasonal Interest

Calico aster has a low, bushy form with gracefully arching stems and fine foliage. It certains lends a soft, elegant aesthetic to the garden. In late summer, small white flowers with yellow centers are found along the stems, making up for their small size by cloaking the plant profusely. The copious white blooms of Calico aster shine bright in partly shaded gardens.The yellow center of each flower gradually fades to shades of pink or purple, giving the plant a dynamic charm and its trademark “calico” name. It is most floriferous in sunny sites and can become sparse or lanky in full shade. These blooms continue well into fall, at which point they mature into fluffy seed heads.  Winter interest is minimal. 

Growing Conditions and Care

Calico Aster is adaptable to a wide range of conditions, making it a care-free addition to many native garden types. It thrives in part shade but can handle full sun if the soil is kept moist. It also tolerates dry soils, particularly in shadier settings, and is unbothered by heavy clay soils. It maintains a clumping habit but self-seeds freely in open soil and wood mulch meaning it may not be ideal for formal gardens but is ideal for natural gardens, cottage gardens or naturalizing.

Calico Aster pairs well with other part-shade plants such as Zigzag Goldenrod (Solidago flexicaulis), Heart-leaf Aster (Symphyotrichum cordifolium) and even grows well under taller plants like Black Cohosh (Actaea racemosa).  

Ecological Benefits

Calico Aster is an important resource for pollinators during late summer and fall when other blooms have waned. The small, nectar-rich flowers attract a wide range of bees, butterflies, and moths. It is particularly popular with solitary wasps, which play a beneficial role in pest control by preying on garden pests like caterpillars and aphids. Additionally, the plant serves as a host for various moth and butterfly larvae, making it a vital component of a pollinator-friendly garden.

New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)

 Sun - pt. sun, 90-180cm/3-6ft, sand/loam/clay, moist-average soil. Tolerates dry soil.

New England Aster is a commonly occurring aster in the wild, being found in meadows, fields, prairies and roadsides sporting its rich purple blooms. Known for its easy care and high ecological value, this aster brings the beauty of the wild to gardens, providing crucial late-season nectar for pollinators and stunning displays of purple or pink blooms. Despite being common in the wild, it certainly still deserves a place in your garden. 

Appearance and Seasonal Interest

New England Aster stands tall and proud, typically reaching heights of 3 to 6 feet, depending on growing conditions. More moisture, richer soil and more sun equal a taller stature. Its flowers, borne in dense clusters along the top of its stems, range in color from deep purple to soft pink, with bright yellow centers. Blooming from late summer into the fall, it provides a striking contrast to the golden yellows of Goldenrods (Solidago spp.) and fall sunflowers. Flowers fade into attractive fluffy seed heads while the stems typically stand tall through most of the winter. 

Growing Conditions and Care

This aster is easy to grow and thrives in rich, moist soils with full sun to light shade but is very forgiving of less ideal conditions. It retains a clumping habit but can be a vigorous self-seeder in bare soil. Without sufficient root competition from other plants it may get floppy. Stems can be pinched back around early summer to encourage a bushier form. Alternatively, seek a low-growing cultivar. The lower leaves of this aster may wilt and fall off by mid summer or during droughts - this is normal. Consider pairing with shorter companions that can hide its scruffy base such as Little Bluestem or Pearly Everlasting. It also plays well with taller companions such as Woodland Sunflower or Stiff Goldenrod.   

Ecological Benefits

New England Aster is an ecological workhorse, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its nectar-rich flowers. It is a larval host plant for over 112 species of butterflies and moths, supporting biodiversity in the garden. Its late blooms make it useful for pollinators preparing for winter, ensuring your garden is teeming with life well into the fall.