This large family (Asteraceae), commonly called the Aster Family, consists of 1,314 genera and 21,000 species of herbs, shrubs, climbers and a few trees is found chiefly in temperate and subtropical regions. The plants are of value to man as ornamentals; a few are insecticides and fish poisons. Generally Asters were called “Michaelmas Daisies”. Michaelmas is a church festival on September 29 celebrating the Archangel Michael; cultivated Michaelmas Daisies are hybrid Asters. Asters are also called “Starwoorts” and “Sharewoorts” in Gerards Herbal (1633). The common, large, double-flowered garden aster belongs to a different genus, Callistephus. Though very abundant in old fields, grasslands, and shaded woods, Asters are of very little use to wildlife. A few upland and songbirds eat the seeds.
- Other Common Names Frost Aster
- Scientific Name Aster pilsusu
- Community Edge
- Lifespan Perennial
- Fruiting Time September to November
- Distribution Maine to Florida ~ Statewide in New Jersey
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Identifying Characteristics
Robust plant, hairy ~ Leaves basal and above, toothed, lance to elliptic ~ Flowers white, sometimes purple, many headed