Calico Aster
Symphyotrichum lateriflorum · Asteraceae (Aster, Daisy, or Sunflower family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Lanceolate to elliptical
Margin
Serrate (coarsely toothed) to nearly entire
Arrangement
Alternate along the branching stems
Venation
Pinnate venation with a prominent midrib and branching lateral veins
Key Features
Abundant small white daisy-like flowers arranged densely along one side of spreading branches, lanceolate leaves, and characteristic disk florets that age to a reddish-purple color
Description
Symphyotrichum lateriflorum is a native perennial herbaceous plant featuring branching stems covered in small, numerous, daisy-like flowers with white ray florets and distinctive centers that often turn purplish-red or brown as they mature. The plant forms bushy clumps and blooms abundantly in late summer and autumn, serving as a critical late-season nectar source.
Habitat
Thrives in deciduous woodlands, woodland edges, thickets, successional fields, and moist to somewhat dry soils in part shade to full sun
Native Range
Native to eastern and central North America, ranging from Quebec and Ontario south to Texas and Florida