Elm-leaf Goldenrod
Solidago ulmifolia
Last reviewed: July 2026
Elm-leaf Goldenrod is a native wildflower found across eastern and central North America that produces bright yellow flower clusters from August through October, attracting bees, butterflies, and beetles.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–48" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 28 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Deer
Resistant (per Prairie Moon Nursery)
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Elm-leaf goldenrod is a native perennial wildflower that produces clusters of bright yellow flowers from late summer through fall. It grows in an upright, clumping form and thrives in partial sun with moderate water needs.
Growing Elm-leaf Goldenrod
Grow Elm-leaf Goldenrod in part sun and medium 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
Elm-leaf 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.
- Common name includes 'goldenrod' which has negative associations
- Can appear weedy or wild to traditional landscaping preferences
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare stems
Wildlife value
Host plant for silvery checkerspot.
This plant is excellent for pollinators, attracting bees, butterflies, and beetles during its long blooming period. It provides important late-season nectar when many other flowers have finished blooming.
Common questions
- When does Elm-leaf Goldenrod bloom?
- Elm-leaf Goldenrod blooms from August through October, producing clusters of small yellow flowers that provide late-season nectar for pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Elm-leaf Goldenrod?
- This native goldenrod attracts a variety of pollinators including bees, butterflies, and beetles, making it valuable for supporting late-season pollinator activity.
- Where is Elm-leaf Goldenrod native?
- Elm-leaf Goldenrod is native to much of eastern and central North America, from Maine south to Florida and west to Minnesota, Kansas, and Texas.
- What growing conditions does Elm-leaf Goldenrod prefer?
- This adaptable native forb tolerates a range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade and various moisture levels, though it typically grows best with medium water availability.
- Is Elm-leaf Goldenrod HOA-friendly?
- Elm-leaf 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 Elm-leaf 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