About Symphyotrichum subulatum var. elongatum (Boss. ex A.G.Jones & Lowry) S.D.Sundb.
Symphyotrichum subulatum is an annual herbaceous forb that grows a single erect stem, reaching up to 1 meter (3 feet 3 inches) in height. Both the stem and its thin green to dark green leaves are hairless. The sheathing base-blades of the leaves are ovulate, with entire margins. The top of the stem extends into a raceme inflorescence. Flower heads contain bright yellow disc florets, surrounded by ray florets that range in color from white to lavender.
As a terrestrial species, Symphyotrichum subulatum typically grows among grasses of all types. It occurs in salt marshes, pond margins, sloughs, swamps, crop field margins, lawns, and roadsides. It is thought to be 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 occurrence varying by variety.
According to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, eastern annual saltmarsh aster (Symphyotrichum subulatum) can be planted to attract butterflies, and it has value for native bees.
