Flowers Related to Asters: Chocolate Daisy, Mistflower, Desert Zinnia, and Salsify

The Asteraceae Family: 20,000 Species Strong

Asters belong to Asteraceae (Compositae), characterized by a central disk surrounded by ray florets (petals). The family includes both ornamentals and edibles—united by flower structure, not use.

Chocolate Daisy (Berlandiera lyrata)

Also called chocolate flower, lyreleaf greeneyes. Perennial, 1–2 feet, gray-green leaves with chocolate scent. Daisy-like flowers: maroon center, yellow petals, 2 inches across. Blooms April–November. Full sun to partial shade; moist to dry soil. Native to AZ, CO, KS, NM, OK, TX.

Mistflower (Conoclinium coelestinum)

Also blue mistflower, wild ageratum, hardy ageratum, blue boneset. Perennial, triangle-shaped leaves (1–3 inches). Tiny pinkish-blue flowers in 2–4 inch fall clusters. NJ to WI/KS, south to TX/FL. Full sun to partial shade; moist soil. Hardy except coldest northern zones.

Desert Zinnia (Zinnia acerosa)

Also dwarf zinnia, dwarf white zinnia. Perennial, 4–10 inches, narrow leaves to 1.5 inches. Yellow-centered, off-white petaled flowers in June–August. Prairies, plains, meadows of AZ, NM, TX, UT. Full sun; dry soil.

Salsify (Tragopogon porrifolius)

Also vegetable oyster, purple salsify. Edible root crop, Mediterranean native. Grass-like leaves to 2 feet. Rose-purple flowers in year two. Full sun; moist, rich soil. Hardy across U.S. except coldest north and hottest south (FL Keys, SoCal).

These relatives showcase the family's incredible range—from desert perennials to edible roots—all sharing the signature composite flower head.