Golden Groundsel
Packera obovata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Packera obovata (Golden Groundsel) is a native wildflower blooming yellow in April and May across eastern and central United States. This adaptable forb attracts bees, beetles, and flies in woodland and prairie settings.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
6"–12" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, CT, FL and 26 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Packera obovata is a native wildflower that forms low, neat clumps of rounded leaves topped with cheerful yellow daisy-like flowers in spring. This compact perennial stays small and tidy, making it suitable for front gardens and foundation plantings. The bright blooms appear in April and May, providing early season color when few other plants are flowering.
Growing Golden Groundsel
Grow Golden Groundsel in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 6 to 12 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 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: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, mid zone.
- Foliage dies back in summer heat
- May self-seed in favorable conditions
Wildlife value
The spring flowers attract native bees, beneficial beetles, and flies when few other nectar sources are available. This early blooming period makes it particularly valuable for supporting pollinators emerging from winter dormancy.
Common questions
- When does Packera obovata bloom?
- Golden Groundsel blooms in April and May, producing bright yellow daisy-like flowers that attract various pollinators.
- Where is Packera obovata native?
- Golden Groundsel is native to much of the eastern and central United States, from New England south to Florida and Texas, and west to Kansas and New Mexico.
- What pollinators visit Golden Groundsel?
- Packera obovata attracts bees, beetles, and flies with its spring flowers, making it valuable for supporting native pollinator populations.
- What growing conditions does Packera obovata prefer?
- Golden Groundsel is adaptable to various light conditions from full sun to partial shade and tolerates a range of moisture levels from wet to dry soils.
- 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