Maryland golden-aster (Chrysopsis mariana, Sketch Bot. S. Carolina 2: 335 (1823))

Family: Asteraceae

Author: Elliott

Bibliography: Sketch Bot. S. Carolina 2: 335 (1823)

Year: 1823

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Chrysopsis

Vegetable: False

Observations: E. U.S.A. to Texas

Description

The Maryland golden-aster, with the scientific name Chrysopsis mariana, is a striking plant native to the Eastern United States, extending as far west as Texas. It belongs to the Asteraceae family, which is known for its diverse and vibrant species. This perennial herbaceous plant is celebrated for its eye-catching golden-yellow blossoms that tend to brighten up the areas where it grows.

Chrysopsis mariana was first described and classified by Elliott, featuring in the “Sketch of the Botany of South Carolina” published in 1823. This work provides significant insights into the botanical diversity of the region, and the inclusion of the Maryland golden-aster highlights its distinctive characteristics among the flora.

Commonly found in a variety of habitats ranging from open woodlands and meadows to road sides and coastal plains, the Maryland golden-aster is well adapted to sandy soils and can often be seen flourishing in regions with well-drained substrates. It thrives in full sun to partial shade, making it a versatile addition to natural landscapes and gardens aiming for native plant species.

The plant itself typically grows to a modest height, displaying a rosette of basal leaves with a hairy texture. Its flowering season extends from late summer to fall, during which it produces clusters of composite flowers. Each flower head comprises numerous small, ray florets surrounding a central disc, embodying the typical structure of the Asteraceae family. These vibrant flowers are not only visually appealing but also play a crucial role in local ecosystems by providing nectar and pollen for a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.

Additionally, the Maryland golden-aster’s ability to thrive in disturbed areas makes it a valuable species for ecological restoration projects. Its resilience and adaptability contribute to soil stabilization and habitat creation for other flora and fauna. Its aesthetic appeal combined with its ecological benefits make Chrysopsis mariana a cherished and significant component of the native plant communities across its range.

Common Names

Eng: maryland golden-aster, maryland goldenaster
En: Maryland golden-aster, Maryland goldenaster

Synonyms

• Heterotheca mariana var. macradenia ((Fernald) V.L.Harms)
• Inula mariana (L.)
• Chrysopsis mariana var. macradenia (Fernald)
• Diplogon marianum (Raf.)
• Diplopappus marianus (Hook.)
• Heterotheca mariana ((L.) Shinners)
• Chrysopsis mariana f. efulgens (Fernald)

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Delaware (native)
• Florida (native)
• Georgia (native)
• Kentucky (native)
• Louisiana (native)
• Maryland (native)
• Mississippi (native)
• New Jersey (native)
• New York (native)
• North Carolina (native)
• Ohio (native)
• Pennsylvania (native)
• Rhode I. (native)
• South Carolina (native)
• Tennessee (native)
• Texas (native)
• Virginia (native)
• West Virginia (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Sep 17, 2022 by Meagan (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 18, 2015 by EOL − Evan Raskin (cc-by-nc)

Taken Aug 18, 2015 by EOL − Evan Raskin (cc-by-nc)

Taken Aug 17, 2020 by Christophe Christophe (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 26, 2021 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of Natural History, Department of Botany (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of Natural History, Department of Botany (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of Natural History, Department of Botany (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken May 6, 2019 by Michelle (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 18, 2015 by EOL − Evan Raskin (cc-by-nc)

Habit

Taken Aug 18, 2015 by EOL − Evan Raskin (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − WVU Herbarium (cc-by-nc-sa)

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

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − WVU Herbarium (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − WVU Herbarium (cc-by-nc-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5385923)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:194173-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Chrysopsis mariana (L.) Elliott)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth