SafePlants

Cottony Goldenaster (Chrysopsis gossypina)

Chrysopsis gossypina, commonly known as Cottony Goldenaster, is a native North American flowering plant belonging to the aster family.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Chrysopsis gossypina (Michx.) Elliott
• Common Name: Cottony Goldenaster
• Family: Asteraceae (Aster Family)
• Synonyms:
  • Heterotheca pilosa
  • Heterotheca gossypina (Michx.) Shinners
  • Chrysopsis longii Fernald
• Subspecies:
  • Chrysopsis gossypina subsp. gossypina
  • Chrysopsis gossypina subsp. cruiseana (Dress) Semple
  • Chrysopsis gossypina ssp. hyssopifolia
• Other Related Species:
  • Chrysopsis scabrella (Coastalplain Goldenaster)
  • Chrysopsis floridana (Florida Goldenaster)
  • Chrysopsis delaneyi (DeLaney's golden-aster)
  • Chrysopsis Falcata (Sickle-Leaved Golden Aster)
  • Chrysopsis Cruise (Cruise's golden-aster)

Distribution and Habitat

Cottony Goldenaster is native to the Coastal Plain, ranging from Florida north to Virginia. It thrives in sandy areas, including coastal dunes and open, sunny locations. It's found in states like Alabama, Florida, North Carolina (NC coastal plain), and South Carolina.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Cottony Goldenaster is a perennial forb/herb, meaning it's a non-woody plant that lives for more than two years.
• It is characterized by bright yellow fall flowers.
• The leaves are pubescent (covered in fine, soft hairs).
• The plant's species epithet, gossypina, derives from the Latin word "gossypium," meaning "cotton," which refers to the pubescence of the plant.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Metallic green halictid bees are observed visiting Cottony Goldenaster.

Further Information

• Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: Provides information on protecting and preserving North America's native plants.
• Discover Life: Offers details about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Chrysopsis gossypina.
• USDA (United States Department of Agriculture)