Bluestem Goldenrod, Solidago caesia is a one of the 14 species of goldenrod found in the Ottawa area. Bluestem Goldenrod along with zigzag goldenrod, Solidago flexicaulis are the most shade tolerant of the goldenrods in our area. Bluestem goldenrod has blue green to purple stems that are often arching over. The bright yellow flowers grow along the stem in the leaf axils. It is smaller and a much less aggressive spreader than Canada goldenrod, Solidago canadensis.

Bloom time: Fall

Wildlife benefits: Nectar source, food source for seedeaters, larval host

Uses: Shady gardens, edge and understory plantings, pollinator gardens

Conditions: Shade to part shade, moist to dry