Photo: Goldenrod blooming in Fairfax County, Famartin, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Alda Krinsman
One hallmark of autumn is the appearance of goldenrods along roadsides and in wild spaces; however, until recently, goldenrods have rarely been used deliberately in gardens. That omission is a shame, because goldenrods, along with asters, are not only attractive to human eyes but also, more importantly, support many pollinator and bird species with their nectar, pollen, and seeds.
There are over 138 species of goldenrod worldwide, the majority of which are found in North America. There are over 40 species of goldenrod native to Virginia alone. Most species of goldenrod belong to the genus Solidago, but some are also classified in the genera Euthamia and Oligoneuron. Perhaps one reason goldenrods have not been widely used in gardens is that many people believe goldenrods cause hay fever and are responsible for their sneezing and watery eyes every autumn. However, the goldenrod pollen is too heavy and sticky to be dispersed by wind. It is usually moved from plant to plant by bees and other pollinators. The true cause of hay fever is ragweed (Ambrosia species), which blooms around the same time of year as many goldenrods and is relatively inconspicuous. Ragweed produces abundant pollen, which is very light and dispersed by the wind. So next time you sneeze, blame the ragweed, not the goldenrod.
Locust Borer on Goldenrod, Judy Gallagher
In late summer and autumn, many bees such as bumblebees, sweat bees, and mining bees seek out the pollen provided by goldenrods to provision their nests. Male bees, butterflies and moths will seek out the nectar. Monarch butterflies will seek out goldenrod nectar on their migration south. The seeds of the plants are favored snacks by birds such as Goldfinch and Chickadees. Earlier in the growing season goldenrods also play an important role as larval hosts to up to 114 species of caterpillars, including Brown-Hooded Owlets and Goldenrod Hooded Owlets.
Judy Gallagher, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Goldenrod species tolerate or even thrive in a range of environmental conditions. Some do well in part shade, and some prefer full sun. Some do well in dry soils, and others prefer moist soils. So, when selecting a goldenrod, take those factors into consideration. Although goldenrods provide valuable ecoservices, not every species is right for every situation. Some goldenrod species such as Canadian goldenrod (Solidago canadensis) can spread aggressively and are best used in large areas such as meadows and restoration projects. However, there are quite a few species that are good choices for garden situations. Blue-stemmed goldenrod (Solidago caesia) is a good choice for shady woodland gardens. Showy goldenrod (Solidago speciosa) would be a good choice for sunny dry areas, and wrinkleleaf goldenrod (Solidago rugosa) is recommended for poorly draining areas, although it also does well in garden soil with average moisture. Early goldenrod (Solidago juncea), which is one of the first goldenrods to bloom in summer, and anise scented goldenrod (Solidago odora) also are good candidates for average garden situations.
Even well-behaved goldenrods may naturalize quickly. If you find you have too much of a good thing, control the spread by dividing your plant every few years and give some to your friends!
Catch up on past Wildlife Sanctuary Almanac articles here.