Symphyotrichum frondosum (Nutt.) G.L.Nesom

Scientific Classification

Symphyotrichum frondosum, scientifically named (Nutt.) G.L.Nesom, is an herbaceous flowering plant that is typically annual, and occasionally perennial.

Stem Characteristics

It produces a leaning or erect stem that reaches a maximum height between 5 and 140 centimeters, or 2 and 55 inches.

Leaf Characteristics

Its leaves are oval-shaped with rounded tips, and measure a few centimeters long. The stem and leaves are mostly hairless.

Inflorescence Features

The inflorescence is a small cluster of flower heads, which hold many short pale pink or lavender ray florets, along with yellow disc florets.

Fruit Characteristics

The fruit is a hairy cypsela that has a white to yellow-tinted pappus.

Native Range

This species is native to western North America. Its range extends south from British Columbia to Baja California, Mexico, east to New Mexico, and north to Wyoming and Idaho.

Habitat

It grows in wet habitats including marshes and meadows, particularly in alkaline or saline conditions.