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Description
Eurybia Divaricata, also known as white wood aster, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This native North American wildflower is primarily found in the eastern part of the United States and Canada, growing in woodlands, meadows, and open fields. The plant produces daisy-like flowers with white rays and yellow centers, which bloom from August to October, providing a late-season source of nectar for bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Eurybia |
Appearance
Eurybia Divaricata can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, forming a clump of upright stems with dark green leaves that are ovate and toothed. The flowers are about an inch in diameter, with 8-20 white rays and a yellow center. The plant blooms in late summer to early fall and attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The seeds are small, light brown, and have a tuft of white hairs that aids in wind dispersal.
Care Guide
Eurybia Divaricata is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. It prefers partial shade but can also tolerate full sun if the soil is kept moist. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8 and can survive in temperatures as low as -40°F. Here are some care tips for Eurybia Divaricata:
- Water: Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Avoid overhead watering, which can lead to fungal diseases.
- Fertilization: Eurybia Divaricata does not require fertilization, but you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to encourage growth.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. If your soil is heavy and clayey, you can amend it with organic matter to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade, but can also tolerate full sun if the soil is kept moist.
- Hardiness Zones: Eurybia Divaricata is hardy in USDA zones 3-8, which covers most of the eastern United States and parts of Canada.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eurybia Divaricata is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot in humid conditions. Here are some common pests and diseases that can affect Eurybia Divaricata:
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease is characterized by a white, powdery coating on the leaves, which can cause them to turn yellow and fall off. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
- Rust: This fungal disease appears as orange or yellow spots on the leaves, which can turn brown and fall off. To prevent rust, avoid overhead watering and remove infected leaves promptly.
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes brown or black spots on the leaves, which can merge and cause the leaf to die. To prevent leaf spot, avoid overhead watering and remove infected leaves promptly.
Habitat
Eurybia Divaricata is native to the eastern part of North America, where it can be found in woodlands, meadows, and open fields. The plant prefers partial shade, but can also tolerate full sun if the soil is kept moist. It is a good choice for naturalizing in wildflower gardens, woodland edges, and meadows, where it can provide late-season nectar for pollinators.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eurybia Divaricata invasive?
A: No, Eurybia Divaricata is not considered invasive. It is a native plant that can be used to enhance biodiversity and provide habitat for pollinators.
Q: How do I propagate Eurybia Divaricata?
A: Eurybia Divaricata can be propagated by division in early spring or fall. Simply dig up the plant and separate the clumps into smaller sections, making sure each section has roots attached. Replant the sections in well-drained soil and water them well.
Q: Can Eurybia Divaricata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Eurybia Divaricata can be grown in containers, but it requires a large pot and well-drained soil. Make sure to water the plant regularly and provide partial shade, as the roots can get too hot in full sun.
Q: Does Eurybia Divaricata attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Eurybia Divaricata attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its late-season flowers that provide a source of nectar and pollen.
Related Plants
- Eurybia macrophylla
- Eurybia mirabilis
- Eurybia schreberi
- Eurybia surculosa
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Eurybia divaricata. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277039&isprofile=0&basic=eurybia
- North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Eurybia divaricata. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/eurybia-divaricata/
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Eurybia divaricata (L.) G.L. Nesom. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=EUDI
