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Photo by and (c)2007 Derek Ramsey, via Wikimedia Commons
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Leaves of Golden Ragwort in summer (spent flower heads removed) photo by Jim Kingdon, via Wikimedia Commons

golden ragwort

Botanical Name: Packera aurea
Plant Family: Aster (Asteraceae)

Description: A 1-3 ft. perennial with deep golden-yellow daisy-like flowers.  Offshoots from the base of the plant creep horizontally, allowing plant to achieve a groundcover effect over time.  Leaves are heart-shaped with dark green upper surfaces and purple leaf bottoms. 

Though it can look weedy if used on its own, it can quickly form clumps that create an attractive groundcover and splash of early spring color.

Growing Conditions: Enjoys medium to wet soils with average  fertility.  Enjoys full sun to shade. Prefers moisture, but can tolerate dryish soils.  Can tolerate seasonal flooding.   

Bloom Time: March through August
Bloom Color: Yellow.

Benefit to pollinators/wildlife:  Nectar and pollen in flowers attract bees.

Native Status: Native to PA.

Location in habitat: Pollinator Demonstration Garden