An Appreciation Post for (Mostly) the Aster, Last Gasp of floral color in the Growing Season
Symphyotrichum is a genus able to capture my attention right away every fall, horticulturally New England Aster is a favorite however here's some of the more common colorful one would see in the woods: 1,2) Common Blue Aster (S. cordifolium) has small vibrant blues that can really pop in dry heavy shade. 3. Crooked Stem (S. prenanthoides) has a scrappy appearance but likes a good stream bank. 4. Tall Rattlesnake Root (Nabulus altissimus) prefers moist cracks in boulders to make itself seen. 5. Nodding Beggartick (Bidens cernua) is a sticky annual that can light up lakeshores in September-October. 6-9) Swamp Aster (S. puniceum) is one of the showiest asters, this one loves Riparian Habitats and shoreline, one of my personal favorites. Happy hunting.
