Roughleaf aster facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Roughleaf aster |
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The roughleaf aster (scientific name: Eurybia radulina) is a cool plant that grows back year after year. It used to be called Aster radulinus. This plant is part of the daisy family, which is also known as the composite family. Think of sunflowers or daisies – they are all related!
This special plant is originally from western North America. You can find it mostly on the west side of the Cascade Range mountains. It grows in both Canada (especially in British Columbia and Vancouver Island) and the United States (in Washington, Oregon, and California, including the Channel Islands).
What is the Roughleaf Aster?
The roughleaf aster is an herbaceous perennial. This means it's a plant that doesn't have a woody stem like a tree or a bush. Instead, its stems are soft and green. "Perennial" means it lives for more than two years, often coming back from its roots each spring after the winter.
Its Family: The Composites
The composite family, or Asteraceae, is one of the largest plant families in the world! Plants in this family often have flowers that look like a single bloom, but they are actually made up of many tiny flowers grouped together. This is why they are called "composites" – they are a composite of many small parts.
Where Does it Grow?
The roughleaf aster loves the western parts of North America. It's often found in areas with a mild climate, especially near the coast.
Native Range
- Canada: You can spot it in British Columbia, including the beautiful Vancouver Island.
- United States: It grows in the states of Washington, Oregon, and California. It even reaches the Channel Islands off the coast of California.
This plant is an important part of the natural environment in these areas. It helps support local wildlife and adds to the beauty of the landscape.
