Family: Aster (Asteraceae)

Description: Woody, perennial, vinelike shrub with lower leaves that constrict below the middle with a clasping base. The smaller upper leaves clasp nearly around the stems. Leaves are elliptical to lanceolate and range from 3/4 to 2 3/8 inches long. Flowers are produced along the upper portion of the stems and are 1 to 1 1/2 inches wide. The ray flowers range form a pale pink to rose purple and the disk flowers are yellow.

Blooms: October to May

Found: Freshwater wetlands throughout the southeastern United States.

Note: The Climbing Aster is commonly cultivated because of its attractive flowers that are visited by bees and butterflies. Vigouous plants can climb 15 feet or more. Wild turkeys eat the flowers.