Symphyotrichum subulatum, commonly known as Eastern Annual Saltmarsh Aster, is an annual herb native to a range of wetland habitats including coastal salt marshes, pond margins, sloughs, and riverbanks. Its native range extends from the eastern United States along the Gulf Coast to Texas, and it is also found in Mexico, the West Indies, Bermuda, Central America, and South America. This species typically reaches up to 3 feet tall, with erect stems and narrow, lanceolate leaves that are green to dark green in color. From late summer to fall, it produces an inflorescence consisting of a raceme with bright yellow disc florets surrounded by white to lavender ray florets, which are attractive to butterflies and native bees.

The Eastern Annual Saltmarsh Aster is valued for its ability to thrive in wet conditions and its contribution to wildlife habitat, particularly as a nectar source for pollinators. It is often used in restoration projects for wetland areas and can be planted in rain gardens or naturalized areas. Gardeners should provide moist to wet soil and full sun to part shade for optimal growth. While it is not known for significant disease or pest issues, it can self-seed prolifically under ideal conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0