Calico Aster Symphyotrichum lateriflorum (formerly Aster lateriflorus)

Other common names: One-sided Aster, Small White Aster, Starved Aster, White Woodland Aster Other scientific names: Aster lateriflorus, Aster diffusus, Aster vimineus, Solidago lateriflora French names: Aster lateriflore Family: Composite Family (Asteraceae) Group: Asters Distinctive features: Long horizontal branches. Sparse flowers. Similar species:   •   Heath Aster (Symphyotrichum ericoides) - Leaves much smaller and more numerous, flowers very numerous.   •   Arrow-leaved Aster (Symphyotrichum urophyllum) - Leaves are larger, branches are upswept.   •   Panicled Aster (Symphyotrichum lanceolatum) Flowers: Summer, Autumn;  White;  7 or more parts (petals);  1cm or less in diameter. Ray flowers: 8-15, white. Disc flowers: 8-16, yellow or pink becoming purple or brown. Flowers are scattered along branches. Flowers grow along the upper side of the branch. Leaves: Alternate, Simple, Entire;  Similar to Panicled Aster, but smaller: elongated lance-shaped. Height: 30-80 cm (11-31 in) Stem: Long horizontal branches spread out from main stem. Habitat: Fields and Open Areas, Meadows;  Fields. Often found at the edge of a field, such as along trails, in slightly shaded locations. Grows in Sun/Shade: Sun, Shade Lifespan: Perennial.   Books: Newcomb's Wildflower Guide: 456    Peterson's Field Guide to Wildflowers: 96    Native/Non-native: Native Status: Common. Notes: This is a very common Aster. It is common along roadsides and field edges. It's fairly easy to recognise. For more information visit: Ontario Wildflowers Photographs: 80 photographs available, of which 8 are featured on this page. SCROLL DOWN FOR PHOTOGRAPHS. Range Map is at the bottom of the page

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