Stiff Goldenrod (Solidago rigida)

Distinguishing Characteristics

Large basal leaves on long stalks, up to 10 inches long and 5 inches wide. Leaf margin slightly to heavily toothed. Leaves mostly smooth.

Height

3 to 5 feet

Blooms

August to September

Description

Bright yellow, daisy-like flowers in dense, erect, flat-topped terminal clusters, atop stiff, broad-leafed, hairy stems

Comments

Found on prairies, glades and pastures, throughout the tallgrass prairie region and and in the Ozarks of Missouri. Able to withstand grazing better than many other forbs. Seeds are a good food source for upland wildlife, especially songbirds. One of the last wildflowers to bloom in the fall.