Some authorities include up to 10[5] or 11 species in Doellingeria, but phylogenetic analyses suggest that any Asian plants in the genus should be classified in Aster, making Doellengeria an endemic North American genus.

[3] Doellingeria as it is now defined is a genus of perennial herbs growing from rhizomes or woody bases.

The unbranched stems grow erect and the tallest can reach 200 cm (79 in) in height.

The alternately arranged leaves have smooth edges and are sometimes woolly or rough-haired.

The disc florets are light yellow and the lobes at the tips may spread or curl.