Chrysogonum virginianum

Chrysogonum virginianum, also known as Golden Knee, is a perennial ground cover that slowly spreads through underground stems. It is covered from late spring to autumn, without interruption, with heads resembling golden yellow zinnia flowers. Easy to grow in moist soil, in the sun or light shade.

Chrysogonum virginianum belongs to the Asteraceae family, it is part of the sunflower tribe, which its spreading character does not reveal. This herbaceous plant is native to the Eastern United States, specifically wooded areas of Pennsylvania, Florida, and Louisiana. It forms a 30 cm (12in) tall ground cover, spreading at least 50 cm (20in), with slow growth. The flowering period is particularly long, continuous from May to November. The daisy-like heads with 5 wide ray florets measure 2 to 4 cm (1 to 2in) in diameter. The name of this plant, 'Golden Knee' refers to the nodes on the stem that resemble a joint. The plant spreads through long rhizomes that produce short, upright stems with opposite, cordate leaves resembling lemongrass. The bright green foliage is deciduous.

Chrysogonum virginianum will find a place in moist, shaded rockeries, along pathways, to dress the base of roses or the front of perennial borders. It can be paired with tradescantia cerinthoïdes, Geranium 'Ann Thompson' or Geranium 'Dilys' . This perennial will also thrive at the edge of water features, in moist soil and a sunny exposure.