Pityopsis graminifolia

Common Names

Narrowleaf Silkgrass, Silkgrass, Grass-Leaved Golden-Aster, Silver-Leaved Aster, Silky Golden-Aster

Summary

Native to the southeastern United States, this rhizomatous perennial forms clumps and grows about 0.3–1 m tall. Basal leaves are linear-lanceolate and grasslike with a silvery-sericeous surface; upper-stem leaves are reduced. Bright yellow, daisy-like flower heads appear in clusters, produced by ray and disk florets, and the plant spreads to form patches via rhizomes and wind-dispersed seeds. Distinctive silvery foliage, grasslike leaves, and yellow flower heads characterize its appearance in dry, sandy habitats such as longleaf pine sandhills and dry woodlands.

Cultivation favors full sun and well-drained sandy or dry soils; drought-tolerant once established and hardy in zones 5–9. Practical uses include erosion control, groundcover, native restoration, xeriscaping, and ornamental plantings; it commonly forms dense colonies and attracts butterflies and bees. Propagation is by seed or division, and maintenance is generally low, with attention to preserve openness in plantings.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

1-3 feet

Spread

1-3 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 5-9

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full sun. Tolerates partial sun to partial shade.

Soil Type

Sandy, well-drained soil

Soil Drainage

Well-drained sandy soil

Soil pH

0-7, Acidic to neutral

Bloom Color

Yellow

Bloom Time

Fall

Foliage Color

Silvery

Fall Foliage Color

No fall color change.

Leaf Lifecycle

Semi-deciduous

Growth Rate

Rapid, vigorous growth with quick rhizome spread forming dense colonies.

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Stem cuttings, Division, Rhizomes (vegetative propagation)

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.