Heart-leaved Aster

This delicate lavender-flowered plant nestled against the embankment appears to be Symphyotrichum cordifolium, commonly known as heart-leaved aster. It’s a native wildflower in the eastern U.S., often blooming in late summer to fall—just when the leaves begin to drop. Here are a few clues that support the ID:

Leaves: The lower leaves tend to be heart-shaped (hence the name), while upper leaves are more lance-like.

Flowers: Small, daisy-like blooms with pale purple to lavender rays and yellow centers that fade to reddish as they age.

Habitat: Thrives in woodland edges, rocky slopes, and disturbed areas—like the embankment in your image.

Seasonal context: The fallen leaves and earthy tones suggest autumn, which aligns with its bloom time.

It’s a quiet beauty, often overlooked but deeply resilient.