Solidago nemoralis

Common Names

Gray Goldenrod, Old Field Goldenrod, Prairie Goldenrod, Field Goldenrod, Dwarf Goldenrod, Grey Goldenrod, Grayleaf Goldenrod, Dyersweed Goldenrod

Summary

Gray Goldenrod, also called Prairie Goldenrod or Old Field Goldenrod, is a rhizomatous, herbaceous perennial native to dry, open habitats across North America. It typically reaches about 0.5–2 feet in height with a similar spread, has arching stems and gray-downy leaves, and bears late-summer to fall yellow flowers arranged in one-sided panicles that attract butterflies and native bees. It prefers full sun and dry to medium, well-drained soils, is drought-tolerant, and is deer resistant; it readily naturalizes by seed or division in suitable landscapes.

Solidago nemoralis propagates by seed or division, with seed germination often aided by cold-moist pretreatment; seeds can be collected in autumn. It is hardy in USDA zones 3–9. The plant supports a broad pollinator and wildlife assemblage, providing nectar for bees and butterflies and seeds for birds, and it suits wildflower meadows, prairie-style plantings, and wildlife-friendly gardens.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

12-24 inches

Spread

6-24 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 3-9

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full Sun. Tolerates Partial Shade and Full Shade.

Soil Type

Dry, well-drained soil (sandy, loamy, clayey, or gravelly)

Soil Drainage

Dry, well-drained soil

Soil pH

6.0-7.0

Slightly acidic to neutral soils

Bloom Color

Yellow

Bloom Time

Fall

Foliage Color

Gray-green

Fall Foliage Color

Yellow

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Slow

Seasons of Interest

Summer and Fall

Propagation Methods

Seeds and Division

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees, butterflies, other pollinators, and birds