Approximately 50 seeds per packet
Collected: 2024
Packaged: 2025
Germination code: C60
Please refer to our germination codes and seed growing information for recommendations and tips.
Seed treatment recommended: this species requires a minimum of 60 days of cold moist stratification to break its natural dormancy and encourage germination. Alternatively, sow seeds in outdoor containers in the fall or winter, with germination occuring in the spring.
Surface sow only: this species has small or tiny seeds that require light to germinate. Seed should only be sprinkled over the surface of pre-moistened soil, and not covered or buried beneath. Water lightly with a light spray or mist to keep the soil moist. Be careful when watering before germination occurs to not bury or move the seeds.
Sericocarpus asteroides (Toothed whitetop aster) Seed Packet
Virginia ecotype
Name: Sericocarpus asteroides (Toothed whitetop aster)
Duration: Perennial
Habit: Low growing, clumping, slow spreading
Size: 3 in. - 1 ft. tall, half as wide, usually very short before flowering
Flowering time: June - August
Bloom color: White
Light: Full sun to shade
Moisture: Medium to dry, well draining
Soils: Clay, sand, loam, rocky
Uses: shade gardens, woodland gardens, front of borders, pollinator gardens, dry shady areasToothed whitetop aster is a short, politely rhizomatous clump forming plant preferring part-sun to shady sites, and dry to average soil. It is typically found in open habitats such as savannas, meadows, and woodland edges. It also frequently inhabits the difficult ground at the bases of large deciduous trees.
From winter to spring Toothed whitetop aster grows as small clusters of basal rosettes. The foliage is typically a rich, grossy green, providing a striking contrast to the clusters of small, white to cream-pink, daisy-like flowers that bloom from late summer to early fall. The delicate display draws a variety of pollinators, including small bees, moths and butterflies.
Sericocarpus asteroides is a unique, underrated and very rarely cultivated native species that can thrive in drought, poor soils, and shaded conditions. A closely related species, Narrowleaf whitetop aster (Sericocarpus linifolius) is slightly taller, more erect, with lacy leaves and more concentrated blooms, which grows in much the same conditions.
See species native range (via BONAP)