Southern Crownbeard Verbesina occidentalis

Yellow crownbeard is an herbaceous perennial in the aster family (Asteraceae) that is native to the central and eastern USA. In its native environment, it is found in fertile soils near disturbed wetlands, roadside ditches, and pastures.

It adapts to various habitats but flourishes in full sun and well-drained, fertile soil that is consistently moist. Once it is established, the yellow crownbeard is drought-tolerant. It forms 3-8 feet tall clumps, and self-seeds. The yellow crownbeard only needs a slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote profuse blooms.

The showy yellow flowers in clusters appear in late summer to early fall. This easy-to-grow plant is showy and attracts a variety of pollinators including native bees.

Use this plant in the back of the border or in a naturalized area. The vigorous root system and self-seeding properties are useful for erosion control on sloping landscapes. Even though it self-seeds easily, it is not considered invasive.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant problems. However, in poorly drained conditions, it is susceptible to aphids, whiteflies, powdery mildew and root rot. The leaves are bitter-tasting and usually discourage deer and rabbits.