Golden ragwort is a fantastic groundcover for shady areas with nutrient-rich soil. A colony of plants will produce a burst of bright yellow flowers about two feet tall. They can be trimmed back after flowering, if necessary, and mounds of round, evergreen foliage will remain. The dense foliage is pretty good at preventing weeds from invading. In sunnier sites, golden ragwort will likely need some extra moisture, but it is fairly drought tolerant when it has some protection from hot afternoon sun.

 

Formerly known as Senecio aureus.

 

Uses:  Rain gardens, bees, evergreen, groundcover

Bloom time:  April - May

 

Height:  12 to 24 inches

Space:  16 to 24 inches

 

Sun:  Half sun to full shade

Moisture:  Average to moist 

 

Seed: We now sow the seed immediately after we've harvested and cleaned it in June, and it usually germinates within a week or two. Consistent moisture and indirect sunlight are important. This ensures we'll have mature plants to sell the next season. If June isn't an option, cold moist stratification for at least 3 weeks will help ensure germination.