Gold and Silver chrysanthemum (Ajania pacifica) is a shrubby herbaceous flowering perennial in the aster family (Asteraceae). This groundcover is native to central and eastern Asia. It is a mound-forming, rhizomatous perennial that is grown for its attractive variegated foliage from spring thru autumn. This groundcover is used seen more in Southeast gardens. Its dense foliage mounds up to 18-24 inches tall that spreads over time via rhizomes to 36 inches around.

Gold and Silver chrysanthemum thrives in full sun but tolerates partial shade. Some afternoon shade is beneficial in hot summer beds. Plants may appreciate winter protection in where winter temps are colder (USDA hardiness zones 5-9). It grows well in all types of soil as long as drainage is good; it performs poorly in soggy ground. It appears to be soil pH insensitive and thrives in all types of soil. Feed with a slow-release fertilizer in spring. In mid-June, lightly shear back growth 1-2 inches to spur additional flower buds in fall.

This perennial ground cover reaches its full mature size in 2 -3 years and is easy to keep under management. Over several years it can span 3 feet wide. Pinch or shear back tall stems in June or July to maintain a dense, bushy growth. Irrigate during long dry spells but do not over-water. Propagation is easy via stem cuttings or by dividing the root ball in spring.

Scallop-edged, blue green 1.5 – 2-inch leaves are etched with ornate silver margins. Undersides are covered by a silvery down. A nice groundcover mum bears the clusters of tiny yellow buttoned flowers in late fall, perhaps the last chrysanthemum to bloom. Its long bloom period is from mid-October thru November, often with mid- 20’s temperatures that don’t faze it.

No significant disease or insect pests bother this mum. Wet damp soils in winter will lead to root and crown rot. Deer pay this mum relative much attention. This ground cover mum deserves to be planted more as a fall season extender.

One cultivar: ‘Pink Ice’ is another color choice with 3.5 to 4-inch-wide short pale pink petals and light-yellow centers.