In fall, from mid-September to mid-October, this hardy perennial is covered with creamy white chrysanthemum-like flowers. The flowers have short, white rays flowers. The numerous disk flowers are tubular and cleft at the tips. The leaves are deeply serrated. Plant this aster in full sun and in average soil. At 20 inches in height, this Asian native plant does not need to be staked.

The study of the DNA of the Asteraceae (aster family) has resulted in many changes. This species, for instance, has been assigned to a number of other genera over time including Asteromoea and Kalimeris. Many vendors still offer this plant under those older names but all will recognize the common name—Mongolian aster.