Buphthuleum salicifolium (Asteraceae) Ox-eye daisy

This is the native European species. It has large, yellow aster flowers on wiry stems that form above a mound of willow-like leaves (salicifolium). It starts flowering in early summer and keeps going until early fall attracting pollinators and beneficial insects. It has a clumping habit, is easy to grow and not too picky about soil types given a bright sunny spot. This underused perennial is a nice addition to the flower garden. There is a native North American species with arrowhead shaped leaves, but tends to be a bit more weedy then it’s European counterpart.