Flat-topped White Aster
Doellingeria umbellata
(formerly Aster umbellatus) |
 Other common names:
Flat-topped Aster, Parasol Whitetop, Umbellate Aster
Other scientific names:
Aster umbellatus, Aster pubentior
French names:
Aster à ombelles
Family:
Composite Family (Asteraceae)
Group:
Asters
Distinctive features:
Flat-topped white flower head with white flowers. Vein pattern on leaves.
Similar species:
•
Large-leaved Aster (Eurybia macrophylla)
Flowers:
Summer, Autumn; White; 7 or more parts (petals); 2cm in diameter. Ray flowers: 4-15, white. Disc flowers: 10-40, yellow becoming brown. Usually arranged in a flat-topped cluster, but with exceptions.
Leaves:
Alternate, Simple; Lance-shaped, with prominent veins. They are smooth when rubbed in one direction, rough the other way.
Height:
100-150 cm (39-59 in)
Stem:
Sometimes purplish.
Habitat:
Forests, Wet Areas, Moist Meadows; Moist woods and swamps, fens.
Grows in Sun/Shade:
Sun
Lifespan:
Perennial.
Books:
Newcomb's Wildflower Guide: 462
Peterson's Field Guide to Wildflowers: 96
Native/Non-native:
Native
Status:
Moderately common.
Notes:
This Aster is fairly easy to recognize due to the flat-topped flower umbel (although it does vary a bit). Look for the prominent vein pattern on the leaves, which is distinctive.
Origin and Meaning of Names:
Scientific Name: umbellata: bearing umbelsumbellatus: like umbels
Photographs:
164 photographs available, of which 13 are featured on this page. SCROLL DOWN FOR PHOTOGRAPHS.
Range Map is at the bottom of the page
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