Oclemena acuminata Play pronunciation

Whorled wood aster is a rhizomatous native wildflower found in the mountains of North Carolina, from eastern Canada to the eastern United States, and as far south as Georgia, in wooded forests or woodland edges. This wildflower belongs to the daisy family (Asteraceae). It spreads by underground runners, forming colonies, and grows 1 to 2 feet tall and equally as wide. The upright stems have a somewhat zigzag pattern, and the leaves are clustered in whorls along the stem. The lance-shaped leaves, with toothed margins and a long, pointed, thin tip, appear larger on the upper stem than the lower stem. The flowers have white petal rays and a yellow or red center, blooming from July to mid-October. The specific epithet acuminata means "tapered, pointed, or sharp." This likely refers to the leaf's pointed tips

The whorled wood aster prefers partial to full shade and cool to humid forests in moist, well-drained acidic soils. It supports pollinators and other wildlife. Propagation methods include division and seeds.

Use in woodland gardens, shade gardens, or naturalized settings to add late summer and fall color.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Monitor for spider mites, lace bugs, leaf minters, leaf hoppers, and thrips. May be susceptible to powdery mildew or root rot.