The Genus Dieteria
Family: Asteraceae
These are herbaceous perennials (D. canescens is a biennial or short-lived perennial). They bloom mostly in the warm season with purple daisy flowers. They are very similar looking and related to tansyasters (Machaeranthera spp.) but distinguished by having entire to toothed leaves, whereas Machaeranthera has once or twice pinnate leaves.
They are generally good in full to part sun, with moderate water. Hardy to 0°F.
These are excellent nectar plants for numerous pollinators. Larval host for the Sabina Checkerspot (Chlosyne acastus ssp. sabina) and the Sagebrush Checkerspot (Chlosyne acastus).
Dieteria comes from the Greek di, two, and etos, year, alluding to the biennial nature of some plants. There are 3 species native to the SW United States and Mexico.
Photo the Fall Tansyaster Dieteria asteroides of by Syd Magner, iNaturalist
Bigelow's Tansyaster (Dieteria bigelovii) is found on rocky slopes, in canyons, and along roadsides from 3,000-11,500 ft. Photo by Max Licher, SEINET
Hoary Tansyaster (Dieteria canescens) is ound in open, often sandy sites, on flats and slopes, from 3,000-9,500 ft. Photo by Max Licher, SEINET
Fall Tansyaster (Dieteria asteroides) is found in alluvial soils and on slopes in creosote shrubland and pine-oak and juniper woodlands, below 8,000 ft