Solidago canadensis, commonly known as Canada Goldenrod, is a native perennial found in prairies, fields, roadsides, and disturbed areas throughout Illinois. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and a wide range of soil types, from dry to moist, making it a resilient and adaptable species.
This tall, upright plant features rough, hairy stems and lance-shaped leaves arranged alternately along the stem. In late summer to early fall, it produces large, arching clusters of small, bright yellow flowers that are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Canada Goldenrod typically grows 2 to 6 feet tall and spreads vigorously by rhizomes.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Solidago canadensis is a robust choice for large-scale restorations, pollinator habitats, and erosion control projects. While its aggressive spreading habit makes it less suited to small or formal gardens, it plays an important ecological role by supporting a wide range of pollinators and beneficial insects. It pairs well with tall grasses and other assertive prairie species in naturalized settings.
Solidago canadensis, commonly known as Canada Goldenrod, is a native perennial found in prairies, fields, roadsides, and disturbed areas throughout Illinois. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and a wide range of soil types, from dry to moist, making it a resilient and adaptable species.
This tall, upright plant features rough, hairy stems and lance-shaped leaves arranged alternately along the stem. In late summer to early fall, it produces large, arching clusters of small, bright yellow flowers that are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Canada Goldenrod typically grows 2 to 6 feet tall and spreads vigorously by rhizomes.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Solidago canadensis is a robust choice for large-scale restorations, pollinator habitats, and erosion control projects. While its aggressive spreading habit makes it less suited to small or formal gardens, it plays an important ecological role by supporting a wide range of pollinators and beneficial insects. It pairs well with tall grasses and other assertive prairie species in naturalized settings.
Bloom: late summer to fall
Habitats: disturbed areas of moist to dry prairies; gravel seeps; limestone glades; openings in both floodplain and upland forests; savannas; thickets
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: mesic
Plant type (height): forb (2 to 6 feet)
Requirements: full sun to partial sun
Soil: variety of soils
