Golden Groundsel
Packera aurea
Last reviewed: July 2026
Packera aurea (Golden Groundsel) is a native wildflower producing bright yellow daisy-like blooms from April through June across eastern and midwestern North America.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Golden Groundsel as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–18" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, CT, FL and 28 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Golden ragwort is a native wildflower that produces clusters of bright yellow daisy-like flowers in spring. This low-growing perennial forms attractive clumps with heart-shaped basal leaves that remain green through much of the growing season.
Growing Golden Groundsel
Grow Golden Groundsel in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 24 inches tall and spread 12 to 18 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Golden Groundsel is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: foundation, mid zone.
- May look sparse in winter when deciduous
- Common name includes 'ragwort' which some may associate with weeds
Wildlife value
The cheerful yellow blooms attract native bees, butterflies, and beneficial beetles during the important early season pollinator period. Seeds provide food for songbirds later in the summer.
Common questions
- When does Golden Groundsel bloom?
- Packera aurea typically blooms from April through June, producing clusters of bright yellow daisy-like flowers.
- What pollinators visit Golden Groundsel?
- Golden Groundsel attracts various pollinators including native bees, butterflies, and beetles that feed on its nectar and pollen.
- Where is Packera aurea native?
- Golden Groundsel is native to much of eastern and midwestern North America, from Maine south to Florida and west to North Dakota, South Dakota, and Oklahoma.
- What growing conditions does Golden Groundsel prefer?
- This wildflower thrives in partial sun with medium to moist soil conditions, tolerating a range from full sun to partial shade.
- Is Golden Groundsel toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Golden Groundsel as toxic to livestock.
- Is Golden Groundsel HOA-friendly?
- Golden Groundsel is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Golden Groundsel? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz