Species golden knee
dark-yellow flowers with yellow-brown stamens, light-green leaves and stems

golden knee

Chrysogonum virginianum

Golden knee (Chrysogonum virginianum) is a unique and attractive native perennial that is prized for its late-season, bright yellow flowers that open from mid- to late-spring. The golden yellow blooms give way to delicate seed heads that wave in the breeze. They look good in wild gardens and can be grown in evenly moist, average, well-drained soils in full to partial sun. This tough species can tolerate a wide range of conditions, and the colorful foliage provides a great backdrop for summer gardens, with attractive buds and foliage throughout the season. Deer resistant, easy to establish, and a great choice for dry sites, golden knee is an amazing way to add rich color and texture to your garden.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 9

Flowers:

Yellow Flowers

Sun:

Part shade,full shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Golden knee plants should be watered once every 1-2 weeks. The amount of water needed depends on the time of year and the soil the plant is in. Generally, water thoroughly so that the root zone is saturated. During the summer months and in hot climates, water may need to be applied more often. In cooler climates and during the winter months, watering can be reduced as the plant goes dormant. Be sure to check the soil regularly to make sure it is not too wet or too dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot and fungal diseases.

sunlight

Chrysogonum virginianum or Golden Knee prefers full sun but will tolerate partial shade. It should receive a minimum of 6 hours of direct sun daily and prefers 8-10 hours of direct sun. In regions that experience extreme heat and humidity, providing light shade during the heat of the day is beneficial. For optimal production of yellow flowers, at least 6 hours of direct sun is essential.

pruning

Golden knee (Chrysogonum virginianum) should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. To maintain the desired shape and form of the plant, prune away any dead or diseased foliage and branches. To encourage branching, selectively prune back some stems to just above a set of healthy leaves. Avoid cutting back too far, as this can cause stress to the plant. Depending on desired size, occasional light shearing may be necessary each year to keep the plant in check.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Chrysogonum virginianum typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map