Identify a Pennsylvania weed with alternate lanceolate leaves

Question

Can anyone identify this weed? I am in western Pennsylvania and would appreciate knowing if it needs to be eradicated.

I don't recognize it, but once you have it identified: You can get the list of plant species considered to be invasive in Pennsylvania here. — feetwet, Commented Sep 13, 2017 at 12:57
There is no such thing as eradicate or total control. Just fyi. — stormy, Commented Sep 13, 2017 at 22:36
It comes up as a wild bush with little purple flowers. I'm in Coatesville Pennsylvania, and have no idea what it's called. I keep them at the edge of the woods. — Catherine, Commented Nov 3, 2017 at 19:23

Tyler K. · Accepted Answer · 2017-10-14 17:04:56Z

1

This looks like some kind of native aster or woodland goldenrod. It is not necessary to pull it.

answered Oct 14, 2017 at 17:04

Tyler K.

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oops, didn't see your comment down there.
– Tyler K.
Commented Oct 14, 2017 at 17:05

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stormy · Accepted Answer · 2017-09-13 22:47:18Z

0

My guess is Polygonum persicaria; Smart Weed. smart weed

answered Sep 13, 2017 at 22:47

stormy

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Thanks, but I should have waited for it to flower and it became obvious: a native aster.
– Nate Turner
Commented Oct 2, 2017 at 1:25

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