Ionactis linariifolia (L.) Greene

Flaxleaf Aster; Stiff Leaf Aster; Bristle Leaf Aster

Herb

Perennial

Vascular

Flax-leaf Aster is a native herbaceous perennial in the Sunflower family (Asteraceae). It occurs throughout Alabama. Flax-leaf Aster occurs in sandy, acidic Longleaf pine woods, in dry pine-oak woods, in rocky woods, and on roadside banks. It is a perennial from short, woody rhizomes. It often forms clumps. Stems are 1-2 feet in height and green or brown in color. Leaves are alternate, sessile, linear in outline, with ciliate margins and glabrous faces. The leaves are stiff and have a single prominent nerve (the central vein). Flowers are produced in heads. The heads are solitary or in loose corymbs. Each head has 7-15 pale blue ray flowers (rarely white or pink) and 10-20 yellow disc flowers that become reddish with age. The fruit is an achene. Flax-leaf Aster is available from nurseries specializing in native plants. It prefers dry, sandy, acidic, well-draining soils in full sun. Its compact growth form is ideal for use in rock gardens or as a border. It is tolerant of drought and thin soils.--A. Diamond

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Native

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