This fleabane is best identified by the narrow, strap-like upper leaves which do not clasp the stem
It is differentiated from the earlier blooming Philadelphia Fleabane (E. Philadelphicus) by narrower leaves which do not clasp the stem. It is differentiated from similar Eastern Daisy Fleabane (E. Annuus) by being less hairy, and rarely having toothed leaves. It is also less leafy than Eastern Daisy Fleabane.