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 For more information visit: Ontario Wildflowers Photographs:
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