An aster for autumn

Wild asters are common in Southeast Missouri. There are hundreds of kinds of asters and related daisy flowers. Most are found in Europe, but some are native to North America. The flower i have photographed here is called a Short's Aster. This native wildflower can be found in or around woodland areas. It can survive in the shade, growing mere inches from the trunk of a large tree.

The petals of Short's aster usually are pale blue or lavender in color. On rare occasions the petals will be white. The flowerhead is about 1 inch across with a yellow or orange'ish center.

This plant is a perennial and will grow each year in the same spot once established. Numerous kinds of insects will visit this autumn-blooming flower. Deer will sometimes browse on the tender upper buds and leaves.

Through the Woods is a weekly nature column by Aaron Horrell. Find this column at semissourian.com to order a reprint of the photo. Find more of Horrell's work at the Painted Wren Gallery in downtown Cape Girardeau.