From the Greek, "Aster" in reference to the shape of the flower and its bracts. At least 200 species are found across North America with dozens in the Tallgrass Praire region alone.
Also known as Symphotrichum novae-angliae. Found throughout the Tallgrass Prairie region in a dizzying array of habitats from marshes to woodlands. Aster colonies frequently cover large areas. Often quite striking in color, the asters bloom from July through the first hard frost.
Sun Exposure | Prairie, Savanna |
Soil Moisture | Wet, Wet Mesic, Mesic, Dry Mesic |
Bloom Time | Summer, Fall August, September, October |
Bloom Color | Purple |
Max Height | 4 feet |
Wetland Code | FACW |
Germ Code | C(60) |
Seeds Per Packet | 500 |
Seeds Per Ounce | 66,000 |
Edible Uses: Unknown
Medicinal Uses: The root is analgesic, astringent, expectorant and febrifuge. A poultice has been used in the treatment of pain, fevers and diarrhoea. The ooze of the roots has been sniffed in the treatment of catarrh.
A decoction of the whole plant has been used in the treatment of all kinds of fevers and in the treatment of weak skin.
Herbal Uses: Unknown