Recent discussions on the topic of the odor of beehives in the northeastern
US did not include mention of asters as the source.  Around this time of year
there is frequently a honeyflow based mainly on asters here in southcentral
Pennsylvania.  A walk into a patch of Aster pilosus (Ithink) which grows in
old fields will reveal to the observer the source of the butterscotch-like
fragrance being picked up by the bees. Its quite strong and not unpleasant.
 
Bill Morrison
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