Goldenrod

Solidago canadensis (aka Solidago lepida and Solidago elongata) Goldenrod is a notably long-lived magnet for pollinators, beneficial insects and birds. Its rhizomatous clumps of lance-leaved vegetation can grow up to five feet high and last for decades. By mid to late summer, the stem tips droop with showy golden racemes that are a highly desired late season pollen source for bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. By fall, flowers beget seeds that are eaten by a number of small mammals and birds including American goldfinch, sparrows, towhees, pine siskins, and dark-eyed juncos. Plant type/canopy layer: deciduous, perennial, herbaceous plant Size at maturity: 3-5’ tall, clumps spread laterally by rhizomes Light requirements: full sun to part shade Moisture requirements: dry to moist soil Bloom time: July - October (August - Sept in the Portland Metro area) Growth rate/ease: fast growing, very easy to grow  Wildlife support: flowers attract and provide nectar for hummingbirds