Sweet goldenrod, Solidago odora (There are several species of goldenrod growing here but sweet is my favorite) Perennial grows 2-5’ stems arising from short rhizomes blooms late summer. Hairy stems bear alternate stemless single veined narrow dark green leaves. Smells like licorice when crushed. In late summer densely crowded golden-yellow flowers appear in branched clusters at the top of the stems. The individual blossoms are arranged in rows along the upper sides of the branchlets. Fuzzy gray seedheads containing tiny nutlets replace the blossoms later in the fall. It performs well in heavy clay soil. The leaves make a flavorful herbal tea. Due to its strong anise flavor, there has been interest in using oil extracted from this species as a flavoring agent. Sweet goldenrod leaves and tops (picked during the flowering period) have been used to make herbal medicines for a variety of disorders including digestive and urinary problems, wounds, ulcers and cancers. Prior to today’s anesthesia, seeds of this plant were used to promote a delirious and forgetful state of mind in surgical patients. The flowers yield a deep yellow dye. The flowers will attract ladybugs, lacewings, hoverflies and other garden friendly insects.

Reply to this comment