Packera obovata aka Round Leaf Ragwort

Packera obovata belongs to the aster family, Asteraceae. It is a perennial, which means it lives for years. Its names include roundleaf ragwort and roundleaf groundsel. Its native range spans eastern Canada to Coahuila, Mexico. It grows on wooded slopes, rocky glades, and limestone ledges. It also grows by streams and in moist meadows. In Missouri, it grows most often in the Ozarks. These sites range from open ground to shade.

Flower stems grow about 1.5 feet [0.46 metres] tall. The plant spreads about 1 foot [0.3 metres] wide. The upright flower stems bear few leaves. Basal leaves grow at the base and form a low cover. They are semi-evergreen, so they keep some leaves. This leaf cover stands about 0.33–0.5 feet [0.10–0.15 metres] high. It serves as ground cover through the growing season. Steady moisture helps keep these low leaves looking good. Plants spread by seed and stolons, or creeping stems. They form large groups when conditions suit them.

Bright yellow blooms appear from April to June. Each daisy-like head spans about 0.06 feet [0.02 metres]. Yellow ray flowers ring a yellow disk at the center. The heads grow above the leaves in flat-topped groups called corymbs. Plants can bloom well even in shade. The spring blooms draw butterflies. They also give helpful insects nectar or pollen. The low leaf cover shelters insects and other arthropods, or joint-legged animals.

Grow it in average soil that drains well but stays moist. It accepts full sun or part shade. It can also cope with some dry soil. In the wild, it grows in moist, lime-rich ground too. Missouri Botanical Garden lists it for USDA zones 3–8. Cut off flower stems after bloom or seed release. The leaves at the base then serve as low ground cover. Its spread suits woods gardens and large plantings left to grow naturally. It also suits cottage gardens, native plant borders, and pond edges. It can help hold soil in place and suit rain gardens.

Missouri Botanical Garden reports no serious pest or disease problems. Still, leave room for its strong spread when you plan beds. Plants For A Future lists no known food or medicinal uses. That source warns that it poisons many mammals that eat plants. Sheep seem more able to tolerate it than other grazing animals. This warning does not mean it is safe for people or pets.