Chrysosplenium americanum

Chrysosplenium americanum, commonly known as golden saxifrage, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the Saxifragaceae family. Native to North America, it thrives in wetlands, stream banks, and other moist environments. This plant has a low-growing habit, featuring round or kidney-shaped leaves that are bright green with scalloped edges. These leaves grow on long stalks that emerge from the plant's base. In early spring, Chrysosplenium americanum produces small yellow-green flowers on short stems above its foliage. Although the flowers are not particularly showy, they do attract pollinators such as bees and flies. Golden saxifrage prefers moist soil with partial shade but can tolerate full sun if the soil remains consistently moist. It spreads by rhizomes, forming dense mats of foliage. Traditionally, Native American tribes have used this plant for medicinal purposes to treat ailments like coughs, colds, and skin irritations. Overall, Chrysosplenium americanum makes an attractive groundcover for wet areas in gardens or natural landscapes. It has low maintenance requirements and can tolerate wet conditions without becoming invasive, making it a suitable choice for high-moisture environments like bogs or marshes.

Characteristics

Plant Type

Herb

Life Cycle

Perennial

Genus

Chrysosplenium

Family

Saxifragaceae

Hardiness Zone

3-7

Mature Height

8 cm to 15 cm

Mature Spread

49 cm

Leaf Color

Green, Blue

Leaf Type

Deciduous

Flower Color

Yellow, Green, Brown

Flower Size

0.25 cm

Bloom Time

Early spring, Mid spring

Planting Time

Spring

Harvest Time

Late spring, Early summer

Tags (4)

Common Names (4)