Golden-knee (Chrysogonum virginianum, Sp. Pl.: 920 (1753))

Family: Asteraceae

Author: L.

Bibliography: Sp. Pl.: 920 (1753)

Year: 1753

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Chrysogonum

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: E. U.S.A.

Description

Chrysogonum virginianum, commonly known as Golden-knee, is a charming perennial plant that graces the Eastern United States with its vibrant and cheery foliage. The plant finds its home mostly in woodlands, meadows, and sometimes along shaded paths, where it flourishes under the canopy of tall trees. This beloved native species belongs to the Asteraceae family, well-known for its spectacular daisy-like blooms.

First classified by the renowned botanist Carl Linnaeus in 1753, Chrysogonum virginianum stands out for its distinctive golden-yellow flowers, which typically bloom from spring through early summer. The flowers are small but striking, each featuring a single row of petals radiating around a central disk. This structure, while simple, creates a blanket of bright color that enlivens its natural surroundings. Often forming dense mats, this perennial serves not only an ornamental purpose but also functions as excellent ground cover that helps prevent soil erosion.

The foliage of Golden-knee consists of lush, basal rosettes of ovate leaves which are gently serrated along the edges. This low-growing habit, combined with the vivid, star-shaped flower heads, makes it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a touch of wild beauty to shady garden spots. It also attracts a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, making it a favorite among those who endeavor to support local ecosystems.

Chrysogonum virginianum is adaptable to a range of soil types, though it prefers moist, well-drained conditions and partial shade to fully shaded locations. It is relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once established, and thus it is well-suited for both naturalistic garden settings and more cultivated landscapes.

Easily propagated by division or from seed, the Golden-knee helps to bring a swath of natural golden color to areas that might otherwise be overlooked. By planting this perennial, gardeners not only beautify their spaces but also contribute to the conservation of native plant species, reinforcing the natural heritage of the Eastern United States.

Common Names

Deu: goldkörbchen
Eng: golden-knee, golden-star, green and gold, green-and-gold
Swe: guldstjärna
En: Golden-knee, Golden-star, Green-and-gold, Green and gold
De: Goldkörbchen
Sv: Guldstjärna

Synonyms

• Chrysogonum virginianum var. dentatum (A.Gray)

Distribution

• District of Columbia (native)
• Kentucky (native)
• Maryland (native)
• New York (native)
• North Carolina (native)
• Ohio (native)
• Pennsylvania (native)
• South Carolina (native)
• Virginia (native)
• West Virginia (native)
• Great Britain (introduced)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Jun 4, 2015 by EOL − Matt Rung (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 24, 2021 by Bill Porter (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 24, 2021 by Bill Porter (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 27, 2020 by Doris Doherty (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 22, 2022 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Leaf

Taken May 31, 2019 by wren belle (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 6, 2022 by mainlymaren (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 3, 2020 by Ashley Warren (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 8, 2015 by EOL − Matt Rung (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jul 22, 2022 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken May 4, 2022 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Cooper, G.A. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Habit

Taken Jun 23, 2013 by EOL − Suzanne Cadwell (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 10, 2016 by EOL − jane_sihm (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 12, 2016 by EOL − annagypsy (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Mar 25, 2016 by EOL − Suzanne Cadwell (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Howard, R.A. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Other

Taken May 28, 2016 by huy HO (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3152026)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:274580-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Chrysogonum virginianum L.)

Specifications

Growth