Aster divaricatus

Unusually for an aster, the species Aster divaricatus syn A. corymbosus / Eurybia divaricata will be perfectly happy scrambling around in light shade under a tall shrub, perhaps, or in a woodland situation. Beth Chatto uses it to great effect scrambling up through bergenia's which support the divaricated stems and show off the dainty flowers to perfection. It is a rhizomatous perennial with small white flowerheads with brownish yellow disc florets borne through summer and autumn. The mid-green foliage and blackish purple stems provide an effective contrast to these flowers. If placed in a situation it enjoys the foliage remains evergreen extending the season of interest into winter.

This aster has now been placed in the Eurybia family but is still commonly known as Aster divaricatus.

 Aster divaricatus is brilliant for cut flowers, thrives in soil kept moist with compost but will tolerate the dry when established.  

Image attributions: link PROManuel Follow