Aster, Panicled - Symphyotrichum lanceolatum

Symphyotrichum lanceolatum, or Panicled Aster, is a perennial wildflower native to Michigan and the Upper Peninsula. It is tall (3-5 feet) and showy, with giant drifts of white flowers.
 
Panicled Aster is at home on riverbanks, shores, and forest edges, but is nearly as common on dryer roadsides, gardens, and meadows. Part shade to full sun, medium to moist soil; this plant is a pollinator magnet. In late summer it is abuzz with pollinators and covered with butterflies. The leaves host Crescent butterfly caterpillars, many types of moths, and a variety of other insects, making this an excellent bird plant.  Seeds are eaten by sparrows, grouse, turkeys, and others. Feed a world of critters while feasting your eyes on this showy wildflower.