Goldenrods are late-season wildflowers bearing big sprays of beautiful golden blooms that are both a delight to behold and an important food source for birds and pollinators.
And with over 120 different species, there’s one well-suited to nearly every growing situation – wet or dry conditions, full sun or shade, vast meadows or compact gardens.
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In this article we’re going to get to know nine different species of goldenrods, examining their sun, soil, and water needs, as well as their growth habit, flowers, foliage, bloom time, and hardiness zones.
Outfitted with these details, you should be able to choose the one (or maybe even two!) that will work perfectly in your landscape.
Here’s a peek at our list:
Before we get started, if you need some tips on growing this wildflower, be sure to consult our guide to growing goldenrods in the landscape, where you’ll discover a selection of recommended Solidago cultivars as well.
1. Blue-StemmedBlue-stemmed goldenrod is native to eastern North America, with a range that extends from Quebec to Texas.
Classified scientifically as S. caesia, this species is also known as “blue stem goldenrod,” and “wreath goldenrod.”
In the wild, S. caesia is found growing in clearings, meadows, woodlands, and wood edges, and is sometimes also referred to as “woodland goldenrod.”
This wildflower has delicately arching inflorescences covered with sulfur-yellow flowers, and it blooms from late summer through fall.
The flowers of this plant grow in its leaf axils, providing this species with yet another common name, “axillary goldenrod.”
Leaves are
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