by Marilee Henry
Goldenrods, in the genus Solidago, are a very important group of plants that are host to 59 different species of moth and butterfly larvae in North America. They are also important sources of pollen and nectar for many of our beneficial insects including bees, flies, butterflies, beetles, and wasps. One recent sunny morning I counted 3 different species of bees and 4 different species of hoverflies busily working one of my goldenrod plantings.
Washington state has 6 native species of goldenrod, most of which occur on both sides of the Cascades. Our pick of the month, western Canada goldenrod, is widespread in Washington state, and ranges from Alaska to California, east to the Rockies, and across Canada to the Atlantic coast. Beginning in late July and lasting through August or later, one can spot stunning golden yellow stands of this 4-to-6-foot perennial in mountain meadows, riparian areas, forest openings, and along roadsides and railroad tracks. According to Arthur Lee Jacobson, goldenrod can still be found among the wild plants growing in Seattle's vacant lots and unmaintained spaces.
This species is recognized by its bright yellow terminal flower clusters, approximately 6 inches wide, that are roughly pyramidal in shape, making up the top 6 to 10 inches of the stem, and by its lack of basal leaves. The numerous small flowers themselves being 1/8 inch or less are crowded along the cluster branchlets that may be recurved. The lanceolate stalkless leaves, shallowly toothed or smooth along their edges, are usually dried up on the lower parts of the stems by bloom time.
Many indigenous peoples used goldenrod for medicines and charms, including infusions to relieve diarrhea, fevers, and sleeplessness. For a more complete list, refer to this website. The bright yellow flowers are a source for dyes of natural plant fibers such as wool and cotton. Thomas Edison found goldenrod to contain a significant amount of latex, and was actively researching its use as an alternate source for rubber production before he died in 1931.
Found at most native plant sales, western Canada goldenrod is easily grown in the home garden and is spectacular in large stands against a wall, fence, or any location where you would like a tall colorful late summer accent. It prefers full sun exposure but can tolerant partial shade. It can be grown in moist to dry conditions and most soil types. If you start with one plant, you will soon have a cluster as they readily spread by rhizomes. Dig up any unwanted outliers in the fall and give them to your neighbors!
It is commonly believed that goldenrod pollen may exacerbate asthma or hay fever symptoms. However, goldenrod pollen is heavy and is distributed by insects, not wind. As explained here, most autumn allergies are due to other species such as ragweed, whose light-weight pollen is wind-borne and can travel significant distances. So don't let this myth keep you from growing this fabulous native. If you think you might be sensitive to it, just plant the goldenrod downwind of your house!
Goldenrods are so wonderful to have near vegetable gardens or rose beds as they attract hoverflies whose larvae are voracious natural predators of aphids! Watch this video to learn about these beneficial insects, and why it is so important to NOT USE any pesticides, herbicides, or fungicides in your garden that invariably harm non-target species!
Having a toxin-free garden with diverse native species will provide food for birds and other animals while keeping nature healthy and in balance.
Always remember, "You are nature's best hope!" - Doug Tallamy, author of "Nature's Best Hope", "Bringing Nature Home", and "How Can I Help? Saving Nature with Your Yard".
Marilee Henry
Kirkland Community Wildlife Habitat Team Member, Washington Native Plant Society (WNPS) Native Plant Steward, Green Kirkland Steward, Finn Hill Neighborhood Alliance Contributor
August Native Plant Sale
Aug 16th - 17th, 2025, Cascade Cactus & Succulent Society (CCSS) Sale
Volunteer Park Conservatory, 1400 Galer St., Seattle
Times and details here. Some vendors sell natives.