Krigia biflora, also referred to as Cynthia, is a native perennial wildflower found in moist prairies, open woodlands, and streambanks throughout Illinois. It thrives in dappled sunlight to light shade and prefers moist, well-drained soils, though it can tolerate drier conditions once established.
This cheerful plant typically grows 1 to 2 feet tall and features slender, branching stems with basal and alternate leaves that are narrow and sometimes slightly toothed. From late spring through summer, it produces bright yellow, daisy-like flower heads resembling small dandelions. Each flowering stem usually bears one or two blooms—hence the name biflora (meaning “two-flowered”). The blooms attract a variety of small bees and pollinators.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Krigia biflora is a charming and ecologically beneficial addition to prairie gardens, moist meadows, and wildflower plantings. It provides early to mid-season color and supports native pollinator populations.
Krigia biflora, also referred to as Cynthia, is a native perennial wildflower found in moist prairies, open woodlands, and streambanks throughout Illinois. It thrives in dappled sunlight to light shade and prefers moist, well-drained soils, though it can tolerate drier conditions once established.
This cheerful plant typically grows 1 to 2 feet tall and features slender, branching stems with basal and alternate leaves that are narrow and sometimes slightly toothed. From late spring through summer, it produces bright yellow, daisy-like flower heads resembling small dandelions. Each flowering stem usually bears one or two blooms—hence the name biflora (meaning “two-flowered”). The blooms attract a variety of small bees and pollinators.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Krigia biflora is a charming and ecologically beneficial addition to prairie gardens, moist meadows, and wildflower plantings. It provides early to mid-season color and supports native pollinator populations.
Bloom: late spring to mid-summer
Habitats: areas along woodland paths; open sandy woodlands; open upland woodlands; rocky glades; rocky wooded slopes; savannas and sandy savannas; thinly wooded bluffs; upland meadows
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: mesic to dry
Plant type (height): forb (1 to 2 feet)
Requirements: dappled sunlight to light shade
Soil: clay-loam; loam; rocky material; sand
