New England Astor

(Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)

Other Names:
Hairy Michaelmas-daisy, Michaelmas daisy

Range:


Family:
Asteraceae - Aster, Daisy, Composite, or Sunflower Family

Growth Type:
An herbaceous perennial

Height:
Between 30 and 120 cm (12 and 47 in) tall

Leaves:
The lanceolate leaves clasp the stem. By the time the plant flowers the leaves on the lower part of the stems often wither.

Stem/Trunk:
New England aster has several erect stems emerging from a single point. The stems are stout, hairy, and mostly unbranched.

Root:
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Flower Season:
Autumn

Flower Appearance:
When this plant flowers, said flowers are borne in abundant flower heads. Each individual showy flower consists of a centered yellow disc floret surrounded by purple ray florets. These surrounding florets can also be rosey pink. I have heard they can also be white, but I have never seen this variety.

Seed/Fruit:
N/A

Miscellaneous characteristics:
Many cultivars have been developed which may differ from the characteristics listed above in various ways.

Habitat:
text

Parts Used:
Leaves, Roots

Culinary Uses:
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Traditional Medicinal Uses:
As a common, widespread plant, people indigenous to north america have used this species have used New England Astor to treat pain, diarrhea, catarrh, and fever. Anecdotal evidence shows a decoction of the plant has been used to treat weak skin. It is also said smudging the plant can be used to revive unconscious people. There is actually a long history of using this plant as an inhalent.

Medicinal Actions:
Antifungal, Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, Astringent, Cardiac Tonic, Carminative, Diaphoretic, Diuretic, Hemostatic, Febrifuge, Parasiticide, Soporific, Vermifuge