About Symphyotrichum squamatum (Spreng.) G.L.Nesom
Symphyotrichum squamatum (Spreng.) G.L.Nesom, also referenced as Symphyotrichum subulatum, is an annual forb. It grows a single erect stem that can reach a height of up to 1 meter (3 feet 3 inches). Both the stem and its thin green to dark green leaves are hairless. The sheathing leaf base-blades are ovulate, and the leaf margins are entire. The top of the stem develops into a raceme inflorescence. The flower heads contain bright yellow disc florets, which are surrounded by ray florets that range in color from white to lavender. This terrestrial species typically grows among grasses of any type. Its growing habitats include salt marshes, pond margins, sloughs, swamps, crop field margins, lawns, and roadsides. It is especially common in these habitats due to its tolerance for saline soils and mowing. It is native to the eastern and Gulf Coast regions of the United States. It is also widespread across Mexico, the West Indies, Bermuda, Central America, and South America, with its presence varying by variety. According to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, this species (also called eastern annual saltmarsh aster) can be planted to attract butterflies, and it has value for native bees.
