Late Goldenrod
Solidago altissima
Last reviewed: June 2026
Late Goldenrod (Solidago altissima) is a native wildflower found across most of the United States that blooms bright yellow from July through September. This drought-tolerant perennial attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles in prairies and open areas.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Late Goldenrod as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
24"–60" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CO, CT and 36 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Late goldenrod is a tall native perennial that produces bright yellow flower clusters from July through September. This hardy prairie plant spreads gradually through underground rhizomes and tolerates drought conditions well once established.
Growing Late Goldenrod
Grow Late Goldenrod in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 24 to 60 inches tall and spread 12 to 36 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Late 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.
- Can appear weedy and unkempt
- Aggressive spreading habit
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare patches
Wildlife value
Host plant for checkerspot butterfly, goldenrod gall fly, goldenrod soldier beetle.
The abundant yellow flowers attract numerous bees, butterflies, and beetles during late summer. This plant is particularly valuable for monarch butterflies and native bee species preparing for winter.
Common questions
- When does Late Goldenrod bloom?
- Late Goldenrod blooms from July through September, producing clusters of small bright yellow flowers.
- What pollinators visit Late Goldenrod?
- Late Goldenrod attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles. It is particularly valuable for native bees and migrating monarch butterflies in late summer.
- Where is Late Goldenrod native?
- Late Goldenrod is native to most of the United States, from Maine to Florida and west to Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico.
- What growing conditions does Late Goldenrod prefer?
- Late Goldenrod thrives in full sun with low to moderate water requirements. It tolerates drought well and grows in prairies, fields, and disturbed areas.
- Is Late Goldenrod toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Late Goldenrod as toxic to livestock.
- Is Late Goldenrod HOA-friendly?
- Late 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 Late 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