Description
Oregon whitetop aster is a late-blooming wildflower in the aster (Asteraceae) family. Although Oregon whitetop aster has a subdued white flower, many species of pollinator take advantage of the late-season nectar and pollen that it provides. In profusion Oregon whitetop aster can be quite showy and attractive. After wildfire this species can be an early colonizer of burned areas, including areas burned at high severity. Oregon whitetop aster can also be found in other disturbed sites, including roadsides. Tolerant of full sun to part shade, Oregon whitetop aster does well in various soil types and moisture levels. In the wild it can tolerate fast-draining soil and drought conditions, but in the garden it can also do well with irrigation with good drainage. This species is easy to grow and blooms during a time when most other plants are done blooming, making it an important species for pollinators. White flowers bloom on 2′-3′ stems that grow from basal leaves. Oregon whitetop aster is abundant in Oregon and California, but is a threatened species in Washington.
Oregon whitetop aster (Sericocarpus oregonensis) seed packets contain approximately 90 seeds per packet.
Seed Germination Instructions
30 days cold-moist stratification. Sow seeds in fall to early spring.
