Botanical name: Chrysopsis spp. (there are many similar species)

Botanical name: Chrysopsis spp. (there are many similar species)
Attributes: A long-blooming, native perennial with peak bloom in September-October. Golden Asters are very tolerant of poor soils, summer heat and long dry spells. They grow from 1 to 3 feet tall and form dense upright plants in cultivation.
Bloom color: Yellow.
Bloom time: Late summer and fall.
Culture: Plant container-grown plants anytime the soil is workable from spring through fall. Water newly planted plants until they are established. They are very drought-tolerant after a single season in the ground, and flourish in a wide range of soils, but prefer average clay to dry soils. They perform best and bloom the heaviest in full sun, but will tolerate partial shade. If plants become too leggy, they can be cut back in midsummer and will still bloom by fall.
Landscaping tips: This native perennial is great for informal, naturalistic plantings and prairie restorations. It self-sows prolifically in bare soil but can be planted in more formal perennial borders if it is mulched. Good companion plants include Rough and Eastern Blazingstars, Asters, Chrysanthemums, Showy Goldenrod, Prairie Dropseed, Little Bluestem and other smaller ornamental grasses such as fountain grass.
Cost: A native perennial usually available only at vendors who sell native plants. Generally available only as small, 4-inch potted plants that sell for about $4 each.
Source: Powell Gardens (www.powellgardens.org)