rayrob's Identifications

Based on the detailed observations and the provided photos, it is strongly indicated that the plant in question is Symphyotrichum firmum rather than Symphyotrichum puniceum. The key characteristics supporting this identification include the smooth, greenish stems that lack the rough or densely hairy texture typical of S. puniceum. Additionally, the leaves are sessile and do not clasp the stem, which aligns with S. firmum and contrasts with the more rigid, clasping leaves of S. puniceum. The flowers, featuring white ray florets with yellow centers, further support the identification as S. firmum, as S. puniceum typically has more deeply colored flowers. The slight purplish hue observed in one specimen’s stems can be attributed to natural variation within S. firmum rather than an indication of S. puniceum. Therefore, the combination of these traits strongly suggests that the plant is Symphyotrichum firmum.