About Ampelaster carolinianus (Walter) G.L.Nesom
Ampelaster is a monotypic genus of North American flowering plants in the Asteraceae family. The genus contains only one known species, Ampelaster carolinianus, which commonly goes by the name climbing aster. This species is native to the southeastern United States, specifically found in the states of Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Among members of the Asteraceae family, Ampelaster carolinianus is unusual for being a climbing plant that relies on other plants to support its weight. It sometimes produces adventitious roots to help with this climbing growth habit. Each branch of the plant holds between 1 and 15 flower heads, which contain both ray florets and disc florets. The flowers range in color from pale pink to rose-purple.
