I photographed this common tallgrass prairie wildflower last November. Can you figure out what species it is?
This photo was taken in eastern Nebraska on November 9, 2009.
If you think you know, leave your answer in the “Comments” below. (either click on “comments” or write in the “reply” space, depending upon which format you’re seeing this post in)
The Prairie Ecologist 
I’m going to go with Compass Plant.
Nope. Good guess, though.
Rough Blazing Star?
Way to go – you got it first!
Rough blazing star
Nice job Bill – I’d expect nothing less of you…
silphium laciniantum compass plant
Nice try Glenn – not knowing the scale makes it hard, doesn’t it? Liatris aspera is the right answer. Beautiful in flower and still very pretty afterward, don’t you think?
I think it’s liatris, probably pynostachya.
Good guess – it’s L. aspera.
– Chris
I should have known. As soon as I saw it mentioned by another, I knew I’d said the wrong one.
Involute phyllaries and number of disk florets (bases) distinguish L. aspera from the other guesses.
This is my first post here, but I’ really pleased to find this blog, Chris, and definitely will be back.
Great to see you here, James! Always good to have people that use words like “involute phyllaries”!! More than just an ant guy, aren’t you? : )
As you say, Chris.
And, good to be welcomed!
This is my first time at your site, Chris. It’s going on my ‘favorites’ list. Neal Ratzlaff
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