Goldenrods are a crucial late-season food source for pollinators and birds. This is a medium-sized goldenrod with narrow plumes of yellow flowers that bloom through the summer in drier areas. Does well in a dry, sandy garden or meadow.

Native range: Eastern North America from Nova Scotia and Ontario south to Florida and Louisiana

Size: 1-3 feet tall, space 18 inches apart

Growing conditions: Full to partial sun, average to dry soil

Bloom period: August through October

Wildlife value: Attracts butterflies, bees, and other pollinators; supports specialist bees including Aster mining bee, eight-spotted miner bee, and hairy-belted miner bee; larval host for wavy-lined emerald moth and goldenrod hooded owlet moth; seeds eaten by birds

Garden benefits: Late-season food source, keystone species, cut flower, autumn color