Seaside goldenrod
Pictured above: Seaside goldenrod (Solidago sempervirens) by Mary Keim. Click on terms for botanical definitions. View post as a PDF.
Seaside goldenrod (Solidago sempervirens) is generally the most available of the four native goldenrods that are grown commercially. It blooms in very showy masses on dunes, in swales and brackish marshes, on sandy soils in coastal areas, and occasionally inland throughout the state. Its nectar attracts a variety of butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. The plant also attracts birds searching for insects.
Seaside goldenrod has golden-yellow tubular blooms that densely cover long inflorescences born on the tips of the stem. It retains its long strap-shaped, somewhat-fleshy basal leaves year-round. Leaves gradually become smaller as they ascend stems.
Goldenrod is often mistakenly blamed for triggering allergies, but it is ragweed, which blooms heavily around the same time, that is actually to blame. Goldenrods have been used medicinally since Roman times or earlier. Seaside goldenrod was used by Seminoles to treat wounds.
Family: Asteraceae (Aster, daisy or composite family)
Native range: Coastal Panhandle, most peninsular counties
To see where natural populations of Seaside goldenrod have been vouchered, visit florida.plantatlas.usf.edu.
Lifespan: Perennial
Soil: Moist, well-drained sandy soils
Exposure: Full sun to minimal shade
Growth habit: 1–2′ tall; 4–6′ when in bloom
Propagation: Seed, division
Florida regions of landscape suitability: North, Central, South
Garden tips: Seaside goldenrod is easy to retain in the landscape. It spreads by rhizomes to make dense colonies over time. Plant it where it can make a big show in the garden, or allow it a large space in the landscape. It needs lots of sun to bloom prolifically, but it will tolerate some shade. Seaside goldenrod is salt tolerant.
Seaside goldenrod seeds may be available through the Florida Wildflower Growers Cooperative. Plants are often available at nurseries that specialize in native plants. Visit PlantRealFlorida.org to find a native nursery in your area.
Learn more about Seaside goldenrod from the Florida Native Plant Society and the Institute for Regional Conservation.
For information on other Solidago species, see:
Chapman’s goldenrod
