New England Aster

Common name: New England Aster

Scientific name: Symphyotrichum
novae-angliae

Dimensions:
    Flower: 3/4-2" (2-5 cm) wide
    Plant height: 2-7' (60-210 cm)

Blooming period: August-October

Habitat: Wet thickets, wet meadows,
moist open areas, swamps

Description: Large, leafy plant with stiff, hairy stems. Flower heads with 35-50 bright lavender to purplish-blue rays around a yellow central disk. Flowers in clusters at branch ends on short pinnacles. Leaves 1-4" (2.5-6 cm) long, are alternate, lance-shaped and clasp the stem. Aster family.
(September 6)