False Goldenrod Solidago sphacelata

Autumn goldenrod is a native herbaceous perennial in the daisy family (Asteraceae) that is commonly found in dry rocky open forests and rocky places.  It is frequently found in locations where the soil contains calcium carbonate, which makes the soil chalky. 

This plant grows 1-3 feet tall and prefers full sun to partial shade. It tolerates average to poor and rocky well-drained soil.  Autumn goldenrod spreads by rhizomes and wind-blown seeds.  Deadheading after flowering will help control the spread of its seeds.  To encourage more blooms, remove the spent clusters of flowers.  It is quite drought tolerant and deer-resistant.

The many bright yellow flowers bloom on one side of the branch and appear in the fall. The basal leaves are large with stem leaves being smaller. The seeds that follow are carried by the wind. Blooming the same time of year as ragweed, goldenrod is erroneously thought to cause allergies.    

This plant can be difficult to find but the cultivar 'Golden Fleece' is readily available. Use in the native/pollinator garden, in the border, in naturalized sites, on slopes or in rock gardens. Pollinators will visit the flowers.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Powdery mildew, leaf spot and leaf rust may be issues affecting this plant.  Aphids, beetles are minor problems.