Anisescented Goldenrod
Solidago odora
Last reviewed: June 2026
Solidago odora is a native goldenrod found across the eastern United States, blooming with bright yellow flowers from July through October. This drought-tolerant wildflower attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to gardens and natural areas.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
24"–48" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 22 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, wasps
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Anise-scented goldenrod is a native perennial wildflower that produces bright yellow flower clusters from summer through fall. It grows 2-4 feet tall with a narrow, upright habit and releases a pleasant anise fragrance when the leaves are crushed. This drought-tolerant plant thrives in full sun and poor soils where other plants struggle.
Growing Anisescented Goldenrod
Grow Anisescented Goldenrod in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 24 to 48 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Anisescented Goldenrod takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Often perceived as a weed due to goldenrod stigma
- Can spread and naturalize beyond intended areas
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare stems
Wildlife value
Host plant for bordered patch butterfly.
This goldenrod is exceptionally valuable for late-season pollinators, providing crucial nectar for bees, butterflies, and beneficial wasps when few other flowers are blooming. It serves as a host plant for several butterfly species and produces seeds that feed birds in winter.
Common questions
- Where does Solidago odora naturally grow?
- Anise-scented Goldenrod is native to 27 states across the eastern United States, from Maine south to Florida and west to Texas, Missouri, and Oklahoma.
- When does Solidago odora bloom?
- This goldenrod blooms from July through October, producing clusters of small yellow flowers that attract various pollinators during late summer and fall.
- What pollinators visit Solidago odora?
- Anise-scented Goldenrod attracts bees, butterflies, and wasps, making it valuable for supporting pollinator populations in native plant gardens.
- How much water does Solidago odora need?
- This native goldenrod is drought-tolerant once established and thrives in low to moderate water conditions, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-maintenance landscapes.
- Is Anisescented Goldenrod HOA-friendly?
- Anisescented Goldenrod takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Anisescented Goldenrod? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz