How to Grow and Care for Crownbeard

Wingstem (Verbesina alternifolia) is a flowering plant native to wooded areas of central and eastern North America. Wingstem is also referred to as yellow ironweed. This plant attracts moths and butterflies by serving as their larval host.

Frostweed is a tall biennial species that can reach heights up to 2 m. In the summer through the fall, it has sprays of white flowers, from which its name is derived. Frostweed is native to the southeastern United States, where it is often found at the edge of forests or in thickets.

Golden crownbeard (Verbesina encelioides) is an annual flowering plant species related to the sunflower. Golden crownbeard is also commonly called a butter daisy. This plant produces a strong odor when crushed. Its flowers, nectar and seeds are eaten by insects, butterflies and birds.

Yellow crownbeard (Verbesina occidentalis) is a perennial that’s a member of the aster family. It’s often confused with the common wingstem (Verbesina alternifolia). The difference between the two is common wingstem has alternate leaves, while yellow crownbeard has opposite leaves.

Texas crownbeard is a large perennial flowering plant that can grow up to 3 m tall. As its common names (Texas crownbeard or Mexican winged crown-beard, depending on which side of the border you're on) suggest, it is native to Texas and Mexico. It can provide forage for cattle or deer.