Overview

Sericocarpus conyzoides is a perennial herb in the genus Sericocarpus, part of the Asteraceae family. Sericocarpus conyzoides grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and sandy or loamy soil soils and neutral to slightly acidic pH. Suggested uses include wildflower gardens, naturalized areas and pollinator gardens. It is native to eastern United States.

About

Sericocarpus conyzoides is a perennial herb in the Asteraceae that flowers from August to October. It favours moist yet well-drained sites and tolerates full sun to partial shade. Native to the eastern United States, it suits naturalised and pollinator-focused plantings. Plants perform best in well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH.

About the genus

Sericocarpus is a genus of North American plants in the tribe Astereae within the family Asteraceae. Whitetop aster is a common name for the genus.SpeciesSericocarpus asteroides - United States Sericocarpus linifolius - United States Sericocarpus oregonensis United States Sericocarpus rigidus - Canada (BC), United States Sericocarpus tortifolius - United States formerly included

In the garden

Sericocarpus conyzoides is a herbaceous perennial from the eastern United States, noted for its late-summer to autumn display of composite flower heads between August and October. In its native range it occupies open, well-drained ground, a habit that translates into straightforward site selection in temperate gardens. Place plants where they receive full sun or light afternoon shade; they prefer well-drained, sandy or loamy soil that remains moist but does not waterlog. Aim for a neutral to slightly acidic soil reaction and avoid heavy clay that holds excess moisture. Established plants perform best where soil drains freely yet retains some summer moisture. Use Maryland White-Topped Aster in wildflower borders, naturalised drifts and dedicated pollinator areas where its late-season blooms extend nectar availability into autumn. It pairs well with other late-flowering meadow species and stands up to being mixed through informal grassland or gravel beds. Expect a useful late-season contribution to wildlife plantings, with flowers present from August to October when many nectar sources are diminishing.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Sericocarpus

Sunlight

full sun, partial shade

Soil type

well-drained, sandy or loamy soil

Soil pH

neutral to slightly acidic

Soil moisture

moist, well-drained

Plant details

Sericocarpus conyzoides size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

perennial herb

Suggested uses

wildflower gardens, naturalized areas, pollinator gardens

Native to

eastern United States

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Sericocarpus conyzoides

Cultivation

Prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate dry conditions once established; minimal maintenance required.

Pruning

Deadhead spent flowers to encourage prolonged blooming; cut back in late fall or early spring.

Propagation

seed, division

Frequently asked questions