Lawn Guardian

Green and Gold Care Guide

Chrysogonum virginianum

ground_coverZones 5–9nativedeer resistant

Cheerful native ground cover with bright yellow star-shaped flowers above heart-shaped green leaves. Blooms heavily in spring with sporadic rebloom. Excellent native shade alternative.

At a glance

Season-by-season care

Spring

Clean up any winter damage Early spring

Remove damaged foliage. Plants are semi-evergreen and may keep foliage in mild winters.

Summer

Water during dry spells During drought

Prefers consistently moist soil. Water during extended dry periods.

Fall

Divide to expand coverage Early fall

Spreads by stolons. Divide and transplant to new areas if desired.

Ecological value

Native ground cover providing nectar for small native bees and beneficial insects. Excellent alternative to invasive ground covers in shade.

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Related plants

Sources: Purdue University Turfgrass Science: Use Growing Degree Days to Better Time Your Applications · University of Missouri Extension: Cool-Season Grasses: Lawn Maintenance Calendar · University of Minnesota Extension: Pre-emergent Herbicides for Crabgrass Control in Lawns