Solidago canadensis
characteristics
Erect perennial, with several flowering stems above the foliage. Masses of tiny, yellow flowers emerge on panicles in a distinctive "pagoda" shape. Exudes an allelopathic substance that inhibits growth of neighbouring plants, especially seedlings. As a result individual plants tend to from ever increasing colonies. In time these can become circles which allow other plants to germinate in the centre. Self seeds readily; can be invasive.
Contrary to popular belief goldenrod does not cause hay-fever. The pollen is both too sticky and too heavy to be blown far from the flowers.
4,600,000 seeds/pound; starts from seed, bare root, cuttings.
| T | SSN | H | W | sun | soil | H2O | fire | N2 | pH | summer | fall | flower (seed) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| P | WY | 1.0 | 0.3 | S/PS | F-M-C | DM-M | ••• | - | 4.8-7.5 | green | grey | yellow |
habitat
Abandoned farmlands, infrequently grazed pastures, waste areas, fields, and roadsides.
uses
Caterpillars of a variety of moths eat the foliage.
An important source of nectar for honeybees and butterflies.
Seed source for birds including eastern goldfinch, swamp sparrow, and prairie chicken.
Several shades of yellow dye can be produced from the flowers.
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