The calico aster (Symphyotrichum lateriflorum var. lateriflorum) has bloomed. I don’t remember planting this or when, but when I saw the New Jersey native plant spring up in my patio planter this summer, I let it be. I am being rewarded with many tiny flowers. According to the Jersey Yards website:
Calico Aster features white flowers, which bloom September-October. The nectar offers a food source for native bees. Calico Aster attracts beneficial insects, which prey upon garden pest insects in your yard. It is a host plant for butterfly larvae (caterpillars) of the Pearl Crescent (Phyciodes tharos) butterfly. Use Calico Aster in borders, planted in groups for hedges or screens, or along walkways in your yard.
I planted the calico aster in a native plants planter on my Juliet balcony. Over several years, I have established a small colony of allium and columbine which sometimes attracts butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds.
I used the MCEX-16 with the XF16-55mF2.8 R LM WR for some macro photography. It’s challenging. The slightest wind moved the stem. I’ll try again when the air is more still.
4 Comments
Prior...
23rd October 2022 at 4:04 PMtruly a wonderful flower with color and artsy petals - and your images are wonderful
Khürt Williams
24th October 2022 at 9:32 AMThank you.
Tina Schell
23rd October 2022 at 1:12 PMNever heard of it Khurt. One of my favorite things about the flower challenge was learning of so many beautiful blossoms I'd not known before. Lovely image
Khürt Williams
23rd October 2022 at 1:34 PMHi Tina, it’s a wild plant native to eastern and central North America.