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Aster ericoides ‘First Snow’ (Heath Aster)

Aster 'First Snow',Heath Aster 'First Snow', Symphyotrichum ericoides 'First Snow'

Aster ericoides 'First Snow', Aster 'First Snow',Heath Aster 'First Snow', Symphyotrichum ericoides 'First Snow', White aster

A very attractive low-growing variety, Aster ericoides ‘First Snow’ (Heath Aster) features arching to prostrate stems smothered by sprays of tiny, white, star-like flowers from late summer into fall. These sprays are so densely packed with blooms that they turn the plant completely white due to the sheer quantity of flowers. When not in bloom, this Heath Aster resembles a spreading Juniper shrub in habit and foliage. Though the narrow, linear, green leaves look like they might be prickly from a distance, they are actually quite soft to the touch. Native to North America, this attractive perennial is easy to grow, low maintenance, mildew resistant and is not affected by any serious pests or diseases. It is terrific when allowed to sprawl over the edge of rock walls or when combined with evergreens.

  • Typically grows up to 18-24 in. tall (45-60 cm) and 40 in. wide (100 cm).
  • Thrives in full sun in average, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils. Does well in sandy or clay soils. Generally tolerates poor soils and drought.
  • Vital ingredient of late summer and fall borders, cottage gardens, rock gardens or prairies. Great for containers too!
  • Asters are a must if you are trying to attract birds or butterflies.
  • Divide every 3-5 years.

Requirements

Hardiness 3 - 9
Heat Zones 1 - 8
Climate Zones 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Compositae
Genus Aster
Common names Michaelmas Daisy, Aster
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Late)
Fall
Height 1' - 2'
(30cm - 60cm)
Spread 3' - 4'
(90cm - 120cm)
Spacing 40" (100cm)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Low, Average
Soil Type Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy
Tolerance Drought, Dry Soil, Rocky Soil, Clay Soil
Attracts Butterflies
Garden Uses Beds And Borders, Patio And Containers
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage, Gravel and Rock Garden, Coastal Garden
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Alternative Plants to Consider

Symphyotrichum leave ‘Bluebird’ (Smooth Aster)
Ampelaster carolinianus (Climbing Aster)
Doellingeria umbellata (Flat-Topped White Aster)
Aster novi-belgii (New York Aster)
Symphyotrichum chilense (Pacific Aster)
Symphyotrichum lanceolatum (White Panicle Aster)

Recommended Companion Plants

Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly Weed)
Persicaria amplexicaulis ‘Taurus’ (Mountain Fleece)

Find In One of Our Guides or Gardens

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How to Create an Enchanting Butterfly Garden
For the Love of Butterflies: Best Flowers to Attract them to Your Garden
6 Reasons You Should Create a Butterfly Garden
For the Love of Bees: Best Flowers to Attract them to Your Garden
How to Cultivate a Thriving Bee-Friendly Garden
September Birth Flower: What is my Birth Flower?
25 Types of Daisies You Should Grow
Aster novae-angliae (New England Aster)
Aster novi-belgii (New York Aster)
Aster amellus (Italian Aster)
While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.
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Requirements

Hardiness 3 - 9
Heat Zones 1 - 8
Climate Zones 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Compositae
Genus Aster
Common names Michaelmas Daisy, Aster
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Late)
Fall
Height 1' - 2'
(30cm - 60cm)
Spread 3' - 4'
(90cm - 120cm)
Spacing 40" (100cm)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Low, Average
Soil Type Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy
Tolerance Drought, Dry Soil, Rocky Soil, Clay Soil
Attracts Butterflies
Garden Uses Beds And Borders, Patio And Containers
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage, Gravel and Rock Garden, Coastal Garden
How Many Plants
Do I Need?
Explore Great Plant Combination Ideas
Aster
Guides with
Aster
Not sure which Aster to pick?
Compare Now

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