About Aster spathulifolius Maxim.
Aster spathulifolius Maxim., called 해국 (haeguk) in Korean and commonly known as seashore spatulate aster in English, is a flowering plant native to coastal areas of Korea and Japan. It originally grew on Ulleungdo and Liancourt Rocks, two islands in the Sea of Japan, and currently grows only in these two countries. This plant has a short height and thick leaves, which help it withstand strong wind and cold conditions. It grows in sunny areas between rocks on seashores, and produces purple flowers from July through November. In fall, when haeguk is in full bloom, it covers Liancourt Rocks in purple.
