Green and Gold
chrysogonum virginianum
Also known as: ["Green-and-gold","Golden-knees"]
Overview
A low-growing perennial herb native to eastern North America, known for its bright yellow flowers and evergreen foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Chrysogonum |
| Botanical Name: | Chrysogonum virginianum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning after flowering; major pruning in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an older plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade (4–6 hours of morning sun); tolerates full sun with adequate moisture but prefers shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun; protect from intense afternoon sun; in containers, move to shadier spots during peak heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid harsh afternoon rays; rotate pots for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); thrives in USDA zones 5–9.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; apply before new growth emerges; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings root easily in warm conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic bag.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent blooms; shear back straggly stems; thin overcrowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Hand pruners, clean scissors.
Checklist
Clean tools; prune dead or damaged stems; remove spent flowers; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter; ensure drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture with finger; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for weather.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water begins to drain from the bottom; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter, adjusting for rainfall.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or aged manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or frost damage in cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn brown or black; growth halts; roots can suffer damage in freezing conditions.
Solution: Mulch heavily in fall; move potted plants indoors before frost; use frost cloths for in-ground plants.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering; may go dormant in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, as this plant prefers lean soil.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicChrysogonum virginianum is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicChrysogonum virginianum is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicChrysogonum virginianum is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Green and Gold attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Is this plant suitable for shade gardens?
A: Yes, it thrives in partial to full shade conditions.
Q: How often should it be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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