How to Grow Forever Gold
Wikimedia Commons
Forever Gold
Chrysogonum virginianum 'Forever Gold'
flowerForever Gold is a compact, low-growing perennial ground cover prized for its cheerful golden-yellow flowers that bloom nearly year-round in mild climates. This cultivar of Green and Gold features smaller, more delicate foliage than the species and produces abundant star-shaped flowers on short stems.
When should you plant Forever Gold in your zone?
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Example Forever Gold timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Forever Gold
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Forever Gold blooms
Around May 17≈ 30 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Forever Gold dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-9, with extended blooms in warmer zones
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Vegetative Growth
4-8 weeksPlant rapidly produces new foliage, spreading horizontally and filling in ground; stems elongate with deeper green coloring
Maintain consistent moisture. Pinch back leggy growth to encourage bushier spread. Remove any dead or damaged leaves. Light feeding with balanced fertilizer optional
Early Flowering
3-4 weeksSmall golden-yellow star-shaped flowers emerge on short stems above the foliage; initial flower clusters appear
Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continued flowering. Increase watering if flowering slows during heat or drought. Reduce fertilizer to avoid excessive foliage at expense of blooms
Peak Blooming
Variable; can last 6+ months in mild climatesPlant is covered with abundant golden-yellow flowers held just above the foliage mat; continuous flowering occurs in ideal conditions
Deadhead regularly for continuous bloom. Reduce watering in cooler months. In zones 5-7, flowering may slow or pause in mid-summer heat; resume in fall. Drought-tolerant at this stage
Winter/Rest
2-4 months (variable by zone)In colder zones, foliage may become bronzed or semi-dormant; in warmer zones, blooming continues sporadically
In zones 5-6, cut back dead foliage in early spring (late winter) to 1-2 inches. Mulch in coldest zones for winter protection. Resume regular care as new growth emerges in spring
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick in early morning or evening; use beer traps; apply diatomaceous earth; encourage natural predators
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Increase humidity and water misting; spray with insecticidal soap; severe infestations may require miticide
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Improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply sulfur dust or fungicide if severe; remove infected leaves
Uses
Edible flowers for garnish
CulinaryThe golden-yellow flowers are edible and can be used as colorful garnishes for salads, desserts, and beverages. They have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and add visual appeal to dishes. [source]
Ground cover and landscape design
HouseholdForever Gold is ideal for low-maintenance ground cover applications, erosion control on slopes, borders, edging, and woodland gardens. Its compact growth habit and persistent blooms make it excellent for border definition and seasonal color. [source]
Traditional herbal use
MedicinalChrysogonum virginianum has been traditionally used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes, including treating digestive complaints and wounds. However, modern scientific evidence is limited and use should be done carefully. [source]
Pollinator support
WildlifeThe abundant flowers provide nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects throughout the growing season. The dense foliage also offers shelter for small creatures. [source]
Dried flower arrangements
CraftThe delicate dried flowers can be pressed or dried for use in pressed flower crafts, bookmarks, and botanical art projects. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Forever Gold is grown as an ornamental ground cover; flowers are not typically harvested. Deadhead spent blooms throughout the growing season to maximize continuous flowering and maintain neat appearance. Cut back plant to 1-2 inches in early spring in colder zones to rejuvenate and remove winter-damaged foliage
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Forever Gold is native to the southeastern United States and was traditionally called 'Green and Gold' because it blooms through fall with flowers appearing above evergreen foliage.
- 🌱 Despite its common name, Forever Gold is not actually 'forever'—blooms may slow or pause during hot, dry summers or cold winters, though the plant often rebounds with seasonal changes.
- 🌱 This cultivar was selected specifically for its improved compactness and extended blooming season compared to the straight species, making it a superior ornamental ground cover.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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