Sun Exposure: Sun, Part Sun
Soil Moisture: Medium, Medium-Dry, Dry
Soil Type: Sand, Loam, Loamy-Clay
Height: 3 - 4 feet
Spread: 1 - 2 feet
Blooms: August, September, October
Root: Fibrous, Rhizomatous
Habitat: Prairies, Woodland borders, Savannas, Limestone Glades, Roadsides
Landscape uses: Pollinator gardens, Meadow plantings, Naturalization
Complimentary Plants: Smooth Aster, New England Aster, Purple Coneflower, Indian Grass, Big Bluestem
Wildlife Value: The pollen and nectar attract many types of insects. Host Plant: The caterpillars of many moths feed on various parts of this goldenrod and others
Seed Origin: Coldwater, ON (Wildlfower Farm seed supplier)
Germination Code: C(60), D
Photo credits: all by Katy Chayka and Peter M. Dziuk
Solidago speciosa - Showy Goldenrod
Showy Goldenrod is just that - showy! This clump forming perennial has large flower heads and bright green glossy leaves. This is one of the last goldenros to bloom and offers a source of nectar to migrating monarchs, among other insects.
Sadly, goldenrods often get blamed for causing the dreaded hayfever. This is simply not true. Their pollen is quite large and sticky to better adhere to the body of visiting insects. Because of this, goldenrod pollen cannot become airborne and can never make its way into your sinuses. The true cause of hayfever is the wind pollinated ragweeds, which broadcast copious amounts of lightweight pollen into the air. We cannot stress enough how important goldenrods are on the landscape. Including them on your property will provide ecosystem services well into the fall when most other plant life is shutting down.