General Information
Status in Florida: Florida Friendly (cultivar of native species)
Native Habitat: Moist meadows, forest edges, pinelands, savannas (parent species)
Native States: Eastern U.S. and Canada, including North Florida
Growing Zones: USDA Zones 4–9
Size at Maturity: 3–4 feet tall, 2–3 feet wide
Phenology: Winter dormant
Life Cycle: Perennial
Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
Growth Habit: Upright, arching, clumping, herbaceous
Bloom Season: Late summer to fall (August–October)
Bloom Color: Bright yellow
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Growth Conditions
Sunlight Requirements: Full-Part
Soil Texture: Sand, loam, adaptable
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
Moisture Requirements: Moist to average
Tolerance to Salt Spray: Low/None
Keystone Plant: Yes
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Landscape Considerations
Recommended Landscape Uses: Pollinator gardens, wildflower borders, meadow plantings, rain gardens
Maintenance Tips: Cut back to the ground in late winter to encourage full growth; divide every 2–3 years to maintain vigor
Considerations: May flop in overly rich or shady soils; attractive to beneficial insects
Hurricane Wind Resistant: No
Erosion Control: Yes
Nitrogen Fixing: No
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Other Information
Edible: No
Pet Safe: Yes
Deer and Rabbit Resistance: Yes
Historical Medicinal Uses: Parent species used by indigenous peoples for sore throats and wounds
Florida Native Companion Plant: Symphyotrichum spp., Rudbeckia hirta, Eupatorium fistulosum
Wildlife Benefit: Pollinators (bees, butterflies), birds (seed)
Caterpillar Host Plant: Yes (several moth species including the Goldenrod Hooded Owlet)
Propagation: Division, seed, cuttings