Goldenrod (Wildflower)

The State flower of Kentucky and Nebraska.

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Goldenrod, common name for certain related plants of the Asteraceae (Compositae) family. The genus of goldenrods contains about 100 species, most of which are North American. They are typical autumn flowers of the United States that grow in woods, meadows, hills, and on rocky ground.

Goldenrods have yellow flowers that are borne in clusters. The smaller goldenrod (Solidago odora) has anise-scented leaves used to make herb tea. The November goldenrod (Solidago serotina) is the tallest and bears large hairy clusters of flowers.

Goldenrod flowers blooms provide nectar for beneficial wasps that prey on aphids.