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What Is This Golden Flower Blooming In Massachusetts In September?

Ask the Expert: Can you identify this wildflower?

Yellow Flower - Solidago - GoldenrodPicture taken at the end of September in Massachusetts. Plant less than a foot tall. In rich soil – not wet. Rays generally only 3. Looks like wingstem but there are no wings on the stem. Thanks! John Kimball

Flower Shop Network Plant Expert Reply:

What you have is a type of Solidago commonly known as Goldenrod. The genus Solidago consists of over a hundred species of woody-based perennials. In Massachusetts, you will find the following Solidago are native:

  • Solidago caesia (blue-stemmed goldenrod, wreath goldenrod)
  • Solidago canadensis (meadow goldenrod)
  • Solidago juncea (early goldenrod, plume goldenrod)
  • Solidago nemoralis (gray goldenrod, old-field goldenrod)
  • Solidago rugosa (rough-leaved goldenrod)
  • Solidago ulmifolia (elm-leaved goldenrod)

I’m not sure which of these species is the one in the photo.

A Few Solidago Facts:
Fresh Flowers with Solidago

  • All Solidago flowers are always yellow.
  • There are over 100 species of this woody perennial.
  • Solidago plant prefer full sun
  • Solidago is considered a wild flower in many places.
  • Solidago can be invasive.
  • Solidago spp is used in fresh flower arrangements as a filler.
  • Solidago can be dried and used in permanent arrangements.
  • Solidago has no fragrance.

Hope this information has been helpful.

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Comments

  1. My first thought was “that’s ‘real’ goldenrod!!” So pretty, so itchy-eye-making.

  2. John Kimball says:

    Dear Jamie,

    Thanks so much for your speedy reply.

    I also found your post very helpful and hope that it will narrow the goldenrod options as I try to make a firm identification.

    A great service of yours – you may hear from me again with further puzzles!

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