Slender (Wand) goldenrod (Solidago stricta), also known as Wand Goldenrod, is a long-lived perennial in the Asteraceae family whose native habitat includes sandy pine barrens and wet coastal areas. With plume-like clusters of tiny yellow, daisy-like flowers atop stems that can easily reach 5 feet tall, this low-maintenance plant usually blooms in our area between August and October and is winter dormant. Like most goldenrods, slender goldenrod performs best in full sun although it can tolerate some light shade.
Slender goldenrod also tolerates occasional salt water intrusion and some exposure to salty wind. An important nectar source for a variety of our native pollinators and migrating Monarchs, slender goldenrod pairs really well with narrowleaf ironweed (Vernonia angustifolia) and blazing stars (Liatris spp.) Although people frequently blame goldenrods for causing hay fever, the real culprits are ragweeds (Ambrosia spp.): the plants flower around the same time each year but it’s ragweeds’ wind-borne pollen that triggers allergic reactions in many people.
With tall clusters of tiny yellow flowers in late summer and early fall, goldenrods produce lots of seeds just in time for birds migrating through the area. It’s a favorite of thrushes, waxwings, vireos, wood warblers, cardinals, and chickadees, and titmice.
/djs