topic Re: Endangered species Ruth's Golden Aster in Share Your Photos

Endangered species Ruth's Golden Aster

Tintype_18 — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 19:02:13 GMT

This flower is only found in Polk County, Tennessee. It only grows in the Hiwassee River and Ocoee River corridors. It is endangered due to changes in water flow and irresponsible people tramping on it. Canon SX530 Powershot HS, f/8, 1/1000 sec., ISO 400, 0 step.

Re: Endangered species Ruth's Golden Aster

LeeP — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 19:29:49 GMT

Who knew? Fascinating information. Too bad someone can't propagate this and reverse the trend

Re: Endangered species Ruth's Golden Aster

SignifDigits — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 23:31:15 GMT

Interesting read - doesn't sound too hopeful for one river, but the other sounds like it is probably secure, though 593 plants is a scary small #. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pityopsis_ruthii#:~:text=Pityopsis%20ruthii%20is%20a%20rare,known%20only%20from%20Polk%20County.

Re: Endangered species Ruth's Golden Aster

Tintype_18 — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 07:03:53 GMT

Tried but unsuccessful. See link given here.

Re: Endangered species Ruth's Golden Aster

Tintype_18 — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 07:07:20 GMT

One problem is the Ocoee River swarms with kayakers and rafters from Memorial Day to Labor day. They get out and don't pay attention to where they walk, sit or recline. Some even pick the pretty flowers. If you ask the USFS where to find them, they won't answer. I was lucky enough to know a fellow who has spotted them before.