Side-flowering aster is woodland native found in much of Eastern and Central North America. It can reach a height of 3 feet. As its common name, Side Flowering Aster, implies it produces small, white blooms along side branches off the main stem. The centers of the flowers start off yellow and become violet as the anthers appear. The white flowers usually face upward and appear between numerous tiny leaves along the stems. It prefers partial shade with moist, well-drained soil. Unlike other asters, this one is not drought tolerant.