Aromatic aster
Symphyotrichum oblongifolium (Nutt.) G.L. Nesom
[=Aster oblongifolius Nutt. ]
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Morphology
- Stem
- Erect, usually much branched, brittle, variable pubescence.
- Leaves
- Lowermost leaves often absent at flowering; stem leaves persistent, alternate, simple, sessile to clasping, numerous, oblong to linear-lanceolate, .5 to 3 inches long, to .5 inch wide, sparsely hairy or glabrous; margins entire, stiff hairy; uppermost leaves reduced to small linear bracts.
- Inflorescence
- Panicles, terminal; heads few to many, .75 to 1.25 inch wide; bracts glandular, tips long, green, loose or spreading.
- Flower
- Ray florets approximately 30, bluish purple; disk florets yellow, age to reddish purple.
- Fruit
- Achenes, flat, hairy, tipped with yellowish white bristles, enclosing small seed.
Ecology
- Habitat
- Dry, rocky or sandy open sites, often on hillsides.
- Distribution
- Throughout except southwest corner of Kansas.
Additional Notes
Comments
Aromatic aster arises from creeping rhizomes.
Synonyms
Alternative scientific names that have been used for this plant.
Scientific Name: Aster oblongifolius
Full Citation: Aster oblongifolius Nutt.
Quick Facts
- Plant Type
- Wildflower
- Family
- Asteraceae - Sunflower Family
- Life Span
- Perennial
- Height
- 6-18 inches
- Last Updated
- 2007-09-03
Color Groups
Flowering Period
Blooms: September, October