Solidago ulmifolia, commonly known as Elm-Leaved Goldenrod, is a native perennial wildflower found in woodlands, woodland edges, and shaded prairies throughout Illinois. It thrives in light shade to partial sun and prefers moist to dry, well-drained soils, making it an ideal choice for shade gardens, woodland restorations, and naturalized plantings.
This graceful goldenrod typically grows 1.25 to 3 feet tall and features smooth, dark green stems and elliptic to lance-shaped leaves that resemble those of an elm tree—hence the name. In late summer to early fall, it produces arching sprays of small yellow flower clusters that bloom along the upper portions of the stems. The flowers attract a variety of native bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects, providing valuable late-season nectar.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Solidago ulmifolia is a shade-tolerant goldenrod that offers subtle beauty, ecological benefits, and seasonal interest without being aggressive like some goldenrod species. It pairs well with woodland companions such as Zizag Goldenrod, White Woodland Aster, Wild Geranium, and Woodland Phlox in biodiverse, pollinator-friendly plantings.
Solidago ulmifolia, commonly known as Elm-Leaved Goldenrod, is a native perennial wildflower found in woodlands, woodland edges, and shaded prairies throughout Illinois. It thrives in light shade to partial sun and prefers moist to dry, well-drained soils, making it an ideal choice for shade gardens, woodland restorations, and naturalized plantings.
This graceful goldenrod typically grows 1.25 to 3 feet tall and features smooth, dark green stems and elliptic to lance-shaped leaves that resemble those of an elm tree—hence the name. In late summer to early fall, it produces arching sprays of small yellow flower clusters that bloom along the upper portions of the stems. The flowers attract a variety of native bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects, providing valuable late-season nectar.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Solidago ulmifolia is a shade-tolerant goldenrod that offers subtle beauty, ecological benefits, and seasonal interest without being aggressive like some goldenrod species. It pairs well with woodland companions such as Zizag Goldenrod, White Woodland Aster, Wild Geranium, and Woodland Phlox in biodiverse, pollinator-friendly plantings.
Bloom: late summer to early fall
Habitats: edges of limestone glades; mesic to upland woodlands; partially shaded banks of rivers; thcikets; thinly wooded bluffs; woodland edges
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: moist to slightly dry
Plant type (height): forb (1.25 to 3 feet)
Requirements: light shade to partial sun
Soil: glacial till; loam; sandy loam; some rocky material
