Goldenrod has a poor reputation as a garden plant but, in fact, it is a valuable, attractive addition to any flower bed. Let’s take a closer look at the many species of goldenrod available and the myths surrounding them.
Myth 1: Goldenrod Causes Hay Fever
Many people believe that goldenrod is the culprit behind seasonal allergies. Fall allergies, however, are more likely caused by ragweed or lamb’s quarters, which are unassuming, dull plants that grow in waste areas.
Goldenrod is not wind pollinated, as ragweed and various other autumn bloomers are. All species of Goldenrod evolved sticky pollen to be carried by insects from flower to flower. It would be counter-productive for Goldenrod pollen to be blown around by the wind.
Myth #2: Goldenrod is Weedy and Invasive
No doubt some Goldenrod species can be aggressive. Canada Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis) is a good example, and not a good choice for an urban garden. Suggestions for well-behaved, stunning, low-growing Goldenrods are coming up.
Myth #3: I Have Goldenrod, I Don’t Need Any More
Ontario is home to at least 15 different species of Goldenrod, and you can find one for any spot in your garden. There are species that thrive in shade, in wet areas, in full sun or in dry, partly sunny spots.
Why Plant Goldenrod At All?
The simple answer is that Goldenrod is a beautiful late season bloomer and holds significant ecological importance as a keystone species.
As an example of the ecological benefits of various Goldenrod species, here are some of the positive aspects of Canada Goldenrod. It thrives in disturbed areas, building soil with its deep roots and stabilizing slopes. Solidago canadensis creates cover for small birds and other animals, and shades the earth from summer heat. Often, Canada Goldenrod can be the right plant in the right place.
All Goldenrod is a pollen source late into the summer season, providing nourishment for bees, butterflies, moths, wasps, beetles and ants. The leaves support 135 species of caterpillars. These insects are “…the little things … who run the world”.* No insects = no life.
Birds eat Goldenrod seeds in autumn and throughout winter if we leave the plants standing.
Most importantly, Goldenrod species are beautiful. Planted with New England or Smooth Asters, the golden yellows and purples make it easier for pollinators to see the patches of blooms. It’s always best to plant multiples of pollinator plants, not only to attract insects, but to make it worth their exertion to find them. Bonus: deer and rabbit like asters, but avoid goldenrod.
In summary, Goldenrod is a plant that will add colour, biodiversity and abundant life to your gardens. You can find a species which will thrive in any location.
*Dr. E.O. Wilson, (biologist, naturalist, ecologist, entomologist ) AZQuotes.com. Retrieved February 15, 2026, from AZQuotes.com Web site: https://www.azquotes.com/quote/720910
Suggested Goldenrod Species for Ontario Gardens
Early Goldenrod (Solidago juncea)
Part shade, full sun
Height 200 cm.
Spread 60 -90 cm.
Produces showy flowers on stems which arch downwards.
Blue-stemmed Goldenrod (Solidago caesia)
Part shade, full shade
Height 45-90 cm.
Spread 30-60 cm.
Arching stems with bright green leaves. Blooms late into the season.
Zig Zag Goldenrod (Solidago flexicaulis)
Part shade, full shade
Height 90 cm.
Spread 30-60 cm.
Adaptable to many growing conditions. Non-aggressive. Upright stems with delicate yellow flowers at top.
Silverrod or White Goldenrod (Solidago bicolor)
Part shade, full shade, full sun
Height 100 cm.
Spread 30-60 cm.
One of two white goldenrods, with spires of creamy white flowers on erect stems. Blooms early in sandy and clay soils, open woods and disturbed soils.
Bog, Swamp or Marsh Goldenrod (Solidago uliginosa)
Full sun, part sun, full shade
Height 30-120 cm.
Spread 30-90 cm.
Prefers boggy soils, but will tolerate merely moist conditions. Reddish stems with narrow flower clusters at the top. Early bloomer.
Other Recommended Varieties:
Hairy Goldenrod (Solidago hispida)
Gray Goldenrod (Solidago nemoralis)
Ohio Goldenrod (Solidago ohioensis)
Upland White Goldenrod (Solidago ptarmicoides)
Stiff Goldenrod (Solidago rigida)
Rough-Stemmed Goldenrod(Solidago rugosa)
Further Reading About Native Plants, Including Goldenrod:
Lorraine Johnson and Sheila Colla. A Garden for the Rusty-Patched Bumblebee Creating Habitat for Native Pollinators
Rick Gray and Shaun Booth. The Gardener’s Guide to Native Plants of the Southern Great Lakes Region, Firefly Books, 2024
Other Links: upnativeplants.com nativeplantconnection.com inournature.ca
Written by Leslye Glover, Tri-County Master Gardener
