The Aster Archipelago is the last stop on our journey using Shanleya's Quest. Asters are a composite flower with one flowerhead composed of many smaller flowers. The smaller flowers are composed of five fused petals surrounding the pistil and stamens. The petals surrounding the disc are called Ray Flowers as each are a complete flower in and of themselves. 
This family of plants contains over 19,000 different species. You can see the tiny individual flowers in the center disc, along with the Ray flowers protruding petal like from the outside. Each tiny flower produces its own seed.
(by Chris)
Some of the flowers in the Aster/Sunflower family include marigolds, dandelions, sunflowers, zinnia, chamomile, calendula and chrysanthemums. They are easy to spot because of their distinctive shape.
You can view photos and find out more about the Sunflower/Aster family here .
(The characteristics of the Aster family by Ben)
(Sunflower Guardian by Mary)
Disclaimer: Do not ever eat a plant unless you are certain about its identity and edibility. Do not use plants that have been sprayed with pesticides, fertilizers or chemicals.
Fun Things to Do:
- Plant chamomile in your summer garden, even a pot will do!
- Drink chamomile tea
- Pick dandelion greens for salad tonight. It is a great digestive aid and reduces indigestion. Choose small leaves as they are less bitter.
- Make granola bars
- Roast some sunflower seeds
- Plant a sunflower house
- Make calendula salve (here is a nice recipe though contains some new age-y jargon) and another simple recipe here.
- Have fun!
