Calico Aster

Scientific name: Symphyotrichum lateriflorum

Location and environmental description: This plant was found in an area with a lot of mosses on the ground. There were not many other asters around this particular plant. High amount of sunlight, due to being in the middle of the trail (low canopy cover).

Key identifying factors: Tubular disk flower and ray flowers. The flowers are not radially symmetrical. Leaves are lance shaped, and the margins are usually slightly toothed near the middle section of the leaf.

Wildlife: They are of low palatability to most animals. However, rabbits will often consume asters.

Rationale for including: This aster in particular stands out because plants can have both colors of flowers at one time (yellow, dark purple/red).