Erigeron annuus

Erigeron annuus is similar to E. strigosus which has leaves usually less that 1 cm wide, sparse foliage, long, spreading stem hairs and usually shorter (3-7 dm tall), while E. annuus has leaves usually wider than 1 cm, ample foliage, and spreading hairs only on their lower parts. It can be distinguished from E. philadelphicus by its leaves, which are not clasping (E. philadelphicus has clasping leaves), the presence of rhizomes, and its flowers borne on upward facing peduncles. Leaves toothed.

For most Asteraceae only a small percentage of seeds develop and germination is sparse. The seed usually ripens fast after flowering so begin checking when the pappus starts to darken and seeds are brown. Dry for 2-3 days then store in cool, dry conditions. This species is considered a weed and should appear in restoration without planting.

As for all members of this genus, E. annuus grows on a wide range of soil types. It is eaten by livestock only in very early stages and is an increaser under heavy grazing. As perennials become reestablished, E. annuus will decrease in abundance making it a good indicator of the condition of a prairie plant community.

Roadsides, fields, meadows, and waste places.