Boltonia latisquama.jpg. by Eugene van der Pijll. Public domain. via Wikimedia Commons
Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
False Aster Plant Care
Boltonia asteroides L'Hér.
Boltonia asteroides, the white doll's daisy,[2] false chamomile,[3] or false aster, is a species of plant native to the United States and Canada. It is found primarily in the Mississippi Valley and Great Plains from Saskatchewan south to Texas and Florida, with isolated populations in the eastern United States. Reports of the species in New England, New York, and the Pacific Northwest appear to be introductions.[4]
Every 7–10 days
Full sun to partial shade
65–75°F
40–60%
What Is the False Aster?
False Aster (Boltonia asteroides) belongs to the Asteraceae family within the Boltonia genus. False Aster is native to the United States and Canada. False Aster is also known as White Doll's Daisy, Aster-like Boltonia, Matricaria asteroides.
False Aster displays an upright, bushy perennial growth habit, reaching up to 3 inches tall with a spread of approximately 2 inches. False Aster produces daisy-like flowers in shades of white, pink, or lavender.
Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.
How Often Should You Water a False Aster?
Boltonia asteroides requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–10 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the False Aster Need?
False Aster thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 200–1000 lux. Avoid placing False Aster in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
200–1000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the False Aster Prefer?
Boltonia asteroides grows best at temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. False Aster prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.
Temperature
65–75°F
Humidity
40–60%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a False Aster?
Moist, well-draining soil with high organic content. Good drainage is essential for False Aster to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a False Aster?
Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a False Aster?
False Aster can be propagated through seeds, division.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the False Aster Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the False Aster?
False Aster is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, leafhoppers. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the False Aster Need?
False Aster grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13b. Native to the United States and Canada, False Aster is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow False Aster as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 13b
Keep exploring plants
False Aster is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Boltonia genus — compare its care with other Boltonia species on PlantoScan.
False Aster tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
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