Chrysogonum virginianum

Common Names

Green And Gold, Golden Star, Golden Knee

Summary

Chrysogonum virginianum, commonly called green-and-gold or goldenstar, is a native eastern North American ground cover that forms a dense, low mat, typically 6 to 12 inches tall and 12 to 18 inches wide, with hairy opposite leaves and bright yellow, star-shaped flowers rising on short stems. It occurs in woodland areas and is valued for its attractive foliage and cheerful yellow blooms. In cultivation it tolerates partial shade to full shade and moist, well-drained soils, with full sun possible only if soils remain consistently moist. It is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9 and is deer-resistant, generally pest- and disease-free though mildew may occur; spreads by rhizomes to form ground cover and propagates by division or seed, with divisions recommended every 3 to 5 years. Common landscape uses include woodland gardens, edging for pathways, rock gardens, and shade borders.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

6-12 inches

Spread

12-18 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 5-9

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally partial sun to partial shade.

Soil Type

Moist, well-drained, acidic soil rich in organic matter.

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil with average to medium moisture and high in organic matter

Soil pH

6.0-6.8 (mildly acidic to neutral)

Bloom Color

Yellow

Bloom Time

Spring through Fall

Foliage Color

Green, Blue-green, Chartreuse/Gold, Dark green, Deep Green, Light green, Bright green, Green and Gold

Fall Foliage Color

Green

Leaf Lifecycle

Evergreen broadleaf

Growth Rate

Generally moderate to fast growth, spreading quickly via stolons or rhizomes to form low mats; northern varieties spread slowly, central varieties at a moderate pace, southern varieties are fast-spreading.

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, and Fall.

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Division

Attracts Wildlife

Bees, butterflies, and birds