This shade-loving aster makes a nice ground cover. It forms neat clumps of dark green leaves. This plant spreads by rhizome, but is not aggressive. In the fall, small white flowers bloom from August through November. Great for a woodland garden.

Native range: Eastern North America, from southern Canada south to Alabama, primarily in the Appalachian Mountains

Size: 1-2.5 feet tall, space 2 feet apart

Growing conditions: Full to partial shade, medium to dry soil

Bloom period: August through November

Wildlife value: Attracts butterflies, bees, and other pollinators; seeds eaten by songbirds during winter; provides nesting materials; late-season nectar source when most other flowers are done blooming

Garden benefits: Attracts pollinators, late-season pollen source, tolerates various conditions