Fall aster

Description:

This native perennial plant is 1-2' tall, branching frequently to create a bushy appearance. The slender stems are rather stiff and slightly pubescent; the lower stems turn brown and become slightly woody during the fall. The alternate leaves are up to 2" long and ½" across, becoming smaller as they ascend the stems; they are typically one-half the maximum size or a little less. They are linear to linear-oblong, slightly pubescent, and smooth along the slightly ciliate margins. These leaves are rather densely crowded along the stems (particularly the upper stems) and sessile. The compound flowers are daisy-like and about 1–1¼" across. Each compound flower consists of about 20-35 blue-violet or purple ray florets that surround numerous disk florets that are yellow or amber. These disk florets later become reddish purple. Each compound flower is subtended by spreading linear bracts that resemble the upper leaves. The blooming period occurs during the fall and lasts about 1-2 months; a robust plant will be covered with flowerheads. There is no noticeable floral scent, although the crushed foliage and flowerheads have a balsam-like aroma. Aromatic Aster is one of the last wildflowers to bloom prior to heavy frost. The achenes have small tufts of light brown hair and are distributed by the wind.

Habitat:

Habitat garden.