Stiff Goldenrod

Solidago rigida

Stiff Goldenrod stands apart from the arching, fluffy-plumed goldenrods by its upright, architectural structure and flat-topped clusters of bright yellow flowers. The leaves are large, rough, and clasping. stiff in texture, as the name suggests. and the stems are rigid and bold. The flowers arrive in large, dense corymbs (flat-topped clusters) from late August through October, and the display is bold and sun-colored against fall's blue sky. At two to four feet, it stands upright without staking even in moderate soil. Stiff Goldenrod is remarkable for its pollinator draw: research has documented higher numbers and diversity of native bee species visiting it than almost any other Solidago. Monarch butterflies in fall migration are a common sight. The upright structure, flat flower clusters, and bold foliage make this one of the most visually distinctive goldenrods available, and its adaptability to dry, lean, alkaline soils makes it useful in sites that would challenge other species.