Asteraceae

Asters are the stars of fall, the name coming from the Greek word for “star" - it's obvious why!

I think this is a white heath aster, or Symphyotrichum ericoides, a nondescript native adored by bees, flies, wasps, skippers, moths and butterflies. It puts on a brilliant show in its abundance.

I also love these obscure little beauties, the calico asters (Symphyotrichum lateriflorum). They always put on a grand show, and the bumblebees seem to appreciate them too

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The New York aster (Symphyotrichum novi-belgii) is yet another set of blooms, showy in their multitudes. The coils of the unfurled one are simply exquisite!