Symphyotrichum ciliolatum


Symphyotrichum ciliolatum, commonly known as Lindley's aster or fringed blue aster, is a perennial herb native to Canada and the northern United States. It is also known as ciliolate aster or northern heart-leaved aster. The common name "Lindley's aster" honours John Lindley who first described the species in 1834.

Description

Symphyotrichum ciliolatum can reach heights of up to and can spread via long rhizomes. The leaves are typically heart-shaped with winged petioles. Flowering occurs between late July and October. The ray florets are blue or bluish purple, and the disc florets are yellow, becoming reddish purple with maturity.
Hybrids with Symphyotrichum laeve, Symphyotrichum novi-belgii and possibly Symphyotrichum lanceolatum have been recorded.

Distribution and habitat

Symphyotrichum ciliolatum grows in open forests, forest edges, thickets and along streams, trails and roadsides. It occurs across Canada from Yukon to Newfoundland, and in the northern United States from Montana to New York.