Common Name:
Marsh Aster

Scientific Name:
Aster simplex Willd.

Family:
Composite (Compositae)

Plant Description:
Marsh Aster is a perennial plant reaching a height of 2-5 feet. Leaves are willowlike in appearance, usually serrated, sometimes smooth. The larger leaves are usually 5-10 times longer than they are wide. Flowers have may rays (20-40) and range in color from violet to white and are often 3/4 inch in diameter. Flowering occurs during the months of July-September.

Remarks:
Marsh Aster is common to damp open meadows and marshes throughout the state. It is an occasional invader of new and established cranberry beds statewide. Seed is often introduced during bed renovations and during planting.