Golden Ragwort

I’ve read that you can use this native “weed” to out compete Japanese stilt grass, which is something I’d like to try some day. Although it’s considered a weed, I think it’s a lovely bright flower that (at least here) occurs along the stream beds.

Of course, I’m curious as to where the word “ragwort” came from, and from what I could find, it might related to the ragged form of the leaves.

Alternate Names: Golden Groundsel, Golden Ragwort, Butterweed
Size: 1'-3' tall
Family: Asteraceae (Sunflower family)
Habitat: Rich acidic soils, can tolerate some flooding and can grow in dryish areas. Can tolerate sun-shade.
Identification: From Wildflower.org: Golden groundsel’s stout, thick, basal offshoots creep horizontally and send up erect flowering stems 1-3 ft. in height. Flowers are deep golden-yellow, daisy-like and showy. Heart-shaped basal leaves are dark-green above and purple beneath. The stem leaves are lobed. The roots colonize and the plant can achieve a groundcover effect over time. Blooms March-August.