Showy goldeneye grows about 12 to 24 inches tall (though it can also get to 36 and 40 inches), with a loose, open form that can sprawl to 12 to 24 inches across. Flowers have bright yellow petals and eyes, and appear in profusion at the tips of the stems. Leaves are green, lance-like, slightly serrate, and finely textured. Blooms mid to late summer. It tends to reseed where happily planted, so use in a landscape where that trait will be valued, such as a meadow-like or naturally-styled garden. There are showy goldeneye happily reseeding at the Greater Avenues Demonstration Garden.
Grow in full sun and well drained soil; not particular as long as it is on the dry side and well drained. Attractive to butterflies and native bees.