Solidago rugosa

Scientific Name (Genus/Species): Solidago rugosa

Family: (Asteraceae)

P to 5′.  Wrinkleleaf Goldenrod.  Central and eastern North America.  This clump-forming plant has numerous, narrow, deeply toothed, dark green leaves with a wrinkled appearance to the upper surface. Tall, rough, hairy stems bear arching branches with panicles of small, light yellow flowerheads concentrated on the upper side.  Physicians in ancient times believed that goldenrod had healing powers; in recent times these plants have been commonly blamed for causing hay fever, but its irritating symptoms are actually caused by ragweed (Ambrosia species), whose pollen is abundant when goldenrod is in flower. All parts of this plant are useful in the native ecosystem, from the nectar and pollen of the flowers, to the foliage and seeds, even to the roots that act as a soil stabilizer.  Blooms July to October.  A “must have” for the wildflower garden.  Sun.  4 & T2