Elegant Goldenrod

Elegant Goldenrod (Solidago lepida) is one of the more refined native goldenrods, bringing bright late-season color without the aggressive spreading habit that gives some of its relatives a bad reputation. Its upright stems are topped with graceful sprays of golden flowers that brighten mountain gardens and naturalized landscapes just as many other wildflowers begin to fade. The blooms provide an important nectar source for native bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects late in the growing season.

This dependable perennial is especially well suited to water-wise landscapes and native plant gardens. Once established, it thrives with little attention, tolerates poor rocky soils, and returns reliably year after year through harsh mountain winters. Its tidy growth habit makes it easy to combine with grasses, penstemons, asters, and other western native perennials for a natural-looking planting that offers interest well into autumn.