Goodding’s Tansyaster: A Hidden Gem for Southwestern Gardens
If you’re looking for a tough, beautiful native plant that can handle the heat and drought of the American Southwest, let me introduce you to Goodding’s tansyaster (Machaeranthera pinnatifida gooddingii var. gooddingii). This unsung hero of the desert might just become your new favorite perennial!
What Makes Goodding’s Tansyaster Special?
Goodding’s tansyaster is a native perennial forb that knows how to put on a show when many other plants are calling it quits for the season. From late summer into fall, this hardy beauty produces clusters of cheerful daisy-like flowers in shades of purple to lavender, each with a bright yellow center that practically glows in the desert sun.
This plant is a true southwestern native, naturally occurring across Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah. As a member of the aster family, it has earned its place in the native plant hall of fame by being both gorgeous and incredibly practical for water-wise gardening.
Why Your Garden Needs This Plant
Here’s where Goodding’s tansyaster really shines – it’s like having a reliable friend who never asks for much but always delivers:
- Drought champion: Once established, this plant laughs in the face of dry conditions
- Pollinator magnet: Bees, butterflies, and other native pollinators absolutely love the late-season blooms
- Low maintenance: Perfect for gardeners who want beauty without the fuss
- Long blooming period: Provides color when many other plants are done for the year
- Native support: Helps local ecosystems by providing food and habitat for native wildlife
Perfect Spots for Planting
Goodding’s tansyaster is incredibly versatile and works wonderfully in several garden settings:
- Xeriscaped yards: A natural choice for water-wise landscapes
- Rock gardens: Thrives among stones and gravel
- Native plant gardens: Fits perfectly with other southwestern natives
- Naturalized areas: Great for creating low-maintenance wildflower meadows
- Desert-themed landscapes: Adds soft texture and seasonal color
Growing Goodding’s Tansyaster Successfully
The best part about this plant? It’s surprisingly easy to grow if you give it what it wants – which isn’t much!
Location and Soil
Plant your Goodding’s tansyaster in a spot that gets full sun for most of the day. This sun-lover won’t be happy in shade. The soil needs to drain well – soggy roots are this plant’s kryptonite. Sandy or gravelly soil is perfect, but it will adapt to most soil types as long as water doesn’t sit around the roots.
Planting Tips
Spring is the ideal time to plant, giving your tansyaster a full growing season to establish before its first winter. Dig a hole just as deep as the root ball but twice as wide, and resist the urge to add rich compost – this desert native prefers lean soil.
Watering and Care
Here’s where many gardeners overthink things: less is definitely more with Goodding’s tansyaster. Water regularly the first year to help establishment, then back off significantly. Once mature, this plant can survive on natural rainfall in most of its native range. Overwatering is more likely to kill it than drought!
Climate Considerations
Goodding’s tansyaster is hardy in USDA zones 4-9, making it suitable for a wide range of climates beyond just the hot desert. It can handle both cold winters and scorching summers – talk about adaptable!
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
While Goodding’s tansyaster is generally easy-going, here are some tips for success:
- Don’t fertilize – rich soil can make the plant leggy and reduce flowering
- Deadheading isn’t necessary, but you can remove spent flowers if you prefer a tidier look
- The plant may self-seed in ideal conditions, giving you free plants for next year
- Cut back old growth in late winter or early spring
The Bottom Line
Goodding’s tansyaster proves that native plants don’t have to be boring. With its cheerful late-season blooms, minimal water needs, and wildlife benefits, it’s a smart choice for anyone looking to create a beautiful, sustainable landscape in the Southwest. Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about growing a plant that’s been thriving in your region for thousands of years – you’re not just gardening, you’re participating in your local ecosystem’s natural rhythm.
Whether you’re a seasoned native plant enthusiast or just starting to explore water-wise gardening, Goodding’s tansyaster deserves a spot on your must-try list. Your garden – and the local bees – will thank you for it!
