Vanilla Leaf, Carphephorus odoratissimus

Carphephorus odoratissimus, common name vanillaleaf, is a species of North American plants in the family Asteraceae. This species is native to the southeastern United States and noted for its showy flowers and Vanilla scent. It is a favorite of many bees. 

Vanillaleaf is described as short-lived perennial, but will develop pups next to the main rosette,  and will slowly spread.  Its lower leaves are straplike, 6 inches to 1 foot, and form a rosette. From the center a tall stalk (up to 4') emerges that produces many small purple flowers in flat-topped inflorescences. and blooms late summer into fall. It naturally occurs in mesic to hydric pine flatwoods, moist sandhills and bogs. So it is a plant that likes a moist, acidic location.

Vanillaleaf blooming in pine flatwoods. Photo by Eleanor Dietrich  https://www.flawildflowers.org/flower-friday-carphephorus-odoratissimus/