New England Aster

New England Aster
Symphyotrichum novae-angliae

This is one of my favorite plants. My yard is rather wild and in the fall it mixes with the goldenrods and creates a colorful palette along our drive. It's quite nice.

The insects love this plant and the goldenrods, but I've learned that people also like to eat it. They put the flowers and leaves in a salad, or just pick the flowers and eat them for a little snack. They are said to have a "calming" affect. I'll have to try them next year to see if they calm me down any.