Pityopsis graminifolia aka Grass Leaf Golden Aster

Pityopsis graminifolia belongs to the daisy family, Asteraceae. It is an evergreen perennial: it lives for years and keeps its leaves. Its names include narrow-leaf silkgrass and silk grass. People also call it silver grass and scurvy grass. Its native range runs from southern Ohio to Honduras. This range includes the Bahamas. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. Its older name, Chrysopsis graminifolia, means the same plant. The leaves look like grass, but it is a wildflower, not a grass.

The plant forms clumps that spread to cover the ground. Shoots grow up, while the plant also spreads out sideways. North Carolina State Extension lists its growth rate as slow. Yet the source says it grows strongly and forms colonies. Its fine texture suits the front of a border. Narrow, linear leaves reach 1 foot (0.3 metres) long. These long, slim leaves have hairs and green, gray, and silver tones. They stay green and add interest when flowers have gone. Bloom stems reach about 2.5 feet (0.76 metres) tall. The stems have no scent.

Yellow flower heads look like daisies and bloom in summer and fall. They grow on upright stems in clusters about 2 inches across. More sun brings a stronger show of flowers. Bees and butterflies come to the blooms for nectar. This makes it useful in gardens grown to feed pollinators. Both the flowers and silver-toned leaves add interest. The plant also serves as a food source for wildlife.

Choose a sunny spot with soil that drains well. It grows in part shade but blooms best in full sun. Sandy soil suits it, and it can cope with dry ground. It grows poorly in rich, damp soil. North Carolina State Extension warns against clay soil, too. Its listed cold-hardiness range spans USDA zones 5a through 9b. These traits suit dry sites where water drains well. They do not make it a good choice for wet ground.

Use silkgrass in borders, meadows, or spots where it can spread freely. It also suits coastal gardens, pots, and sites beside paths. Plant it in small groups or large masses. Its spread helps it fill space and cover the ground. North Carolina State Extension rates its care needs as high. For a neater look, cut it back in February. Do this before new leaves come through. Grow more plants by dividing clumps or sowing seed. The same source lists its low risk of catching fire.