1079. Symphyotrichum laeve (L.) Á. Löve & D. Löve: Compositae

Symphyotrichum laeve (L.) Á. Löve & D. Löve (Compositae: Astereae: Symphyotrichinae) is described and illustrated, and the species is provided with an expanded synonymy that includes type citations, known types, and supplementary comments for the presently accepted varieties. A commentary on the tribal position of Symphyotrichum, its recognition, infrageneric classification, and the placement of S. laeve within that classification, is provided. Most recently, Symphyotrichum laeve has been divided into four varieties, although it might be more appropriate to recognise just two subspecies; the appropriate synonymy is suggested by amalgamating the two pairs' synonymies. The material grown in the North American Prairie plantings at Wakehurst Place is more aptly called S. laeve var. laeve (or subsp. laeve) largely by the conspicuous diamond-shaped apical green patch on the phyllaries, and the phyllaries markedly gradate nature. Notes are provided on cultivation and propagation, pests and diseases, and availability. Although illustrated previously, in 1830, the plate of Aster laevigatus was somewhat stylized, and the name, possibly applicable to Lamarck's, Willdenow's or Purch's concept, at best sensu auctt. A short commentary on Oliver Atkins Farwell, author of a few infraspecific names of, is provided.