Cottony Goldenaster (Chrysopsis gossypina subsp. hyssopifolia), also known as Hairy Goldenaster, is a bright, showy Florida native wildflower, that brings late‑season color and valuable wildlife support to sunny landscapes. Growing up to 3 ft. tall, this short-lived perennial produces abundant yellow blooms that attract a wide range of native pollinators, including butterflies, green metallic bees, sweat bees, leafcutter bees, bumble bees, and mining bees.
This subspecies thrives in full sun and prefers well‑drained to somewhat moist sandy soils with acidic to neutral pH. It is tolerant of heat, drought, and nutrient‑poor soils. After flowering, it forms brown to black fruit, which may be eaten by small birds.
Its ecological value is high, supporting both pollinators and seed‑eating wildlife.
- Flower, short-lived perennial
- Size: Up to 3 ft. tall
- Flower: Yellow
- Fruit: Brown, black
- Exposure: Full sun
- Moisture: Well-drained to moist
- Soil: Sand
- Soil pH: Acidic to neutral
- Attracts butterflies and bees: green metallic, sweat, leafcutter, bumble and mining bees
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