Wrinkleleaf goldenrod (Solidago rugosa), like other goldenrods, has a long panicle of yellow ray and disk florets characteristic of the aster family, Asteraceae. But there are a few key features that distinguish wrinkleleaf goldenrod from the other goldenrods. The central stem, which can reach 1-5 feet, is covered in tiny hairs, or pubescence. The upper…
Smooth blue aster (Symphyotrichum laeve), a wildflower and a member of the aster family, Asteraceae, is a lovely addition to a full-sun perennial garden. At maturity, smooth blue aster can reach between 1.5 to 3 feet in height and has an erect growth habit. The leaves are up to 6 inches long and 1.25 inches…
Wild blue phlox (Phlox divaricata), or woodland phlox, is a slow-growing herbaceous groundcover belonging to the Phlox plant family Polemoniaceae. At maturity, wild blue phlox can reach 12-18 inches in height and 8-12 inches in spread. The opposite, narrow leaves are slightly pubescent just like the stem. One subtle feature to observe is that the…