Wild Weeds – Weed of the Month

Scaleleaf Aster

Symphyotrichum adnatum

Scaleleaf Aster is hardly noticeable when not in bloom. The leaves of this plant “hug” the stem, giving them a scale like appearance and making it difficult to spot on the forest floor. Blooms appear in late fall or early winter and appear like other aster species. Flowers are daisy like with many lavender to violet ray florets surrounding a dense center of bright yellow disc florets.

This species occurs in pine flatwoods and sandhill understories throughout most of Florida. The flowers are attractive to many pollinators, especially bees. You can spot this plant from other aster species due to its scale-like leaves and wiry appearance.

Learn more about the plant characteristics here: https://flawildflowers.org/flower-friday-symphyotrichum-adnatum/

Check out other Wild Weeds Here: http://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/bakerco/tag/wild-weeds/

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