SafePlants

Narrowleaf Goldenaster

The Narrowleaf Goldenaster is a fascinating plant with several common names and a complex taxonomic history. This page provides information on its classification, distribution, characteristics, and potential considerations for homes and gardens.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions the plant being present in gardens, which suggests potential exposure for pets that spend time outdoors.
• The plant is described as being hispid and strigose, meaning it has stiff hairs. These hairs might cause mild irritation if touched or ingested by pets.

Considerations for Children

• The plant is described as being hispid and strigose, meaning it has stiff hairs. These hairs might cause mild irritation if touched by children.
• The plant is present in gardens, suggesting potential exposure for children who spend time outdoors.

Scientific Name and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Chrysopsis linearifolia
• Common Names: Narrowleaf Goldenaster, Narrowleaf Silkgrass, Narrow-leaf Silkgrass, Grass-leaved Golden Aster, Silver-leaved Aster, Silky Golden-aster, Hairy Gold Aster, Narrowleaf Gold Aster, Hoary False Goldenaster, Grassleaf Golden Aster

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Asteraceae (Sunflower family or Composite family)
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Synonyms:
  • Pityopsis graminifolia (for Narrowleaf Silkgrass, which is sometimes considered a synonym)
  • Heterotheca graminifolia (also for Narrowleaf Silkgrass)
• Subspecies: Chrysopsis linearifolia subsp. linearifolia, Chrysopsis linearifolia subsp. dressii

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the southern and eastern United States.
• Specifically mentioned as present in Florida, Alabama, and Maryland.
• Often found in sandy soils with moderately dry to dry moisture levels.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Growth habit: Forb/herb.
• Duration: Biennial, Perennial.
• Stems: 1-50, ascending to erect, simple or branched above, sparsely to densely hispid and strigose, sometimes stipitate-glandular.
• Foliage: Silvery grass-like foliage.
• Growth height: 6-16 inches.

Quirky Facts

• Despite some common names including "aster," the text notes that true asters never have yellow flowers, implying that Narrowleaf Goldenaster is often misidentified.
• The silvery, grass-like foliage is so convincing that it can "fool anyone to thinking it might actually be a grass."

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Attracts butterflies, native bees, and bumblebees.
• Found in association with other plants such as Chapman’s oak (Q. chapmanii), and coastalplain goldenaster (Chrysopsis scabrella).

Further Information

• Dave's Garden is mentioned as a resource for gardening tips and ideas.
• ITIS (Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is referenced in relation to taxonomic status.
• Mention of a photo database.