Solidago caesia

Drought-tolerant, fall-blooming Blue-stemmed Goldenrod (Solidago caesia) is a decidedly polite, clump-forming native plant found in upland woods and clearings throughout the Eastern US. Tufts of small, yellow flowers appear in leaf axils along the stems, bringing color to the late-season shade garden. With graceful, arching stems that develop blue-green coloration, Solidago caesia has a more upright form in sunnier locations. Lovely as a cut flower in autumn bouquets, this plant is indispensable in any wildlife garden planted in part shade, where it is tough, adaptable, and easy to please.

This group of hardy herbaceous plants is largely native to North America. It has generally been overlooked by American gardeners, who scorn its common, roadside upbringing and fear weedy looks and invasive behavior. But Goldenrods offer lavish displays in shades of yellow and gold at a time when many other border plants are flagging. And among the genus are a number of plants that are well behaved and suitable for life in the border.

For information on growing and care, click Growing Guide.