FLOWER OF THE WEEK AT SOPCHOPPY DEPOT PARK

Zigzag silkgrass

By LYNN ARTZ, SANDY TEDDER and DAVID RODDENBERRY

Zigzag silkgrass (Pityopsis flexuosa) is a low-growing wildflower with bright yellow flowers in late summer and early fall. Also called zigzag goldenaster, the showy flowers attract bees and butterflies. This evergreen perennial has attractive silvery-gray green foliage. The stems are zig zag, angling in opposite directions between nodes, a distinguishing characteristic. The global range of this state-endangered endemic is limited to 6 Florida counties, with most plants in Wakulla and Leon counties. Found in sandhills, it prefers dry, sandy soil in full sun. It will spread locally with minimal competition. It is often found along roadsides. Populations remain along Crawfordville Highway (319) though many once there have been lost to development. Zigzag silkgrass is blooming now in the front of the northwest garden at Sopchoppy Depot Park.