Wreath (or Bluestem) Goldenrod could have been so named for its plant form, growing to 2-3′ in gracefully arching, mostly unbranched shoots with bright flowers positioned in the axils of leaves all along the stems. It is smaller and less aggressive than most of its cousins, and more suitable for cultivation in many garden settings. This species of Goldenrod provides yellow accents in the full sun garden and meadows but also in somewhat shadier — and drier — locations than can be tolerated by other Goldenrods. Not many flowers tolerate dry shade! This one is a fine cut flower, is attractive to many insects, and the seeds are popular with birds. It can form small colonies, but is not remotely invasive. Wreath Goldenrod is found in open woods and clearings throughout eastern North America, and in NC occurs more in the piedmont and foothills than in the mountain or southeastern coastal plain counties. Goldenrod pollen is not airborne and does NOT cause hay fever.
