Smooth blue aster
Symphyotrichum laeve (Symphyotrichum laeve), also called Purple aster, Smooth leaved aster, or Glaucous Aster, is a perennial wildflower or forb of the Aster family (Asteraceae), native to the Eastern United States. The flower heads appear from August to October in a brilliant lavender-blue surrounding a central yellow disk. The thick leaves are smooth to the touch and the stems, 6-7 per caudex, tend to grow a light gray or white bloom.
The Smooth blue aster is a favored forage for deer and wild turkey, and the plant responds well to typical grazing. It is also attractive to pollinators, and its leaves are favored by several types of caterpillars.
The first documented specimen of Smooth blue aster in Jefferson County was found at Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve in October 2010 by Birmingham-Southern College student Kate LeCroy.
References
- "Smooth Blue Aster plant guide. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
- Garrison, Greg (March 14, 2011) "Rare wildflower discovered in Alabama nature preserve by BSC student." Birmingham News