A low-growing, wiry shrub of sunny, sandy soils and open woodlands, St. Andrew's Cross is perfectly named. Its small, bright yellow flowers have four narrow petals arranged in a perfect, flat "X," strikingly reminiscent of its namesake's cross.

From the center of this golden cross, a tiny puff of stamens emerges. These delicate blooms appear all summer on its branching stems, which are lined with pairs of small, oval leaves. This unassuming plant is a vital nectar source for a variety of small native bees.