Old-field Goldenrod
Solidago nemoralis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Solidago nemoralis is a drought-tolerant native wildflower found across most of the eastern and central United States. This goldenrod blooms from July through October with bright yellow flower clusters.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Old-field Goldenrod as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 32 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Old-field goldenrod is a compact native perennial that produces graceful arching sprays of bright yellow flowers from summer through fall. This drought-tolerant wildflower forms neat clumps and is smaller and more manageable than many other goldenrod species.
Growing Old-field Goldenrod
Grow Old-field Goldenrod in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 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
Old-field 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.
- Strong association with weedy appearance despite being well-behaved
- Yellow wildflower appearance may trigger HOA concerns
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare stems
Wildlife value
The abundant small flowers provide nectar for bees, butterflies, and beneficial beetles during the critical late-season blooming period. This plant is particularly valuable for supporting pollinators when many other flowers have finished blooming.
Common questions
- When does Old-field Goldenrod bloom?
- Solidago nemoralis typically blooms from July through October, producing clusters of small bright yellow flowers that attract various pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Old-field Goldenrod?
- This native goldenrod attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles, making it valuable for supporting pollinator populations in gardens and natural areas.
- Where is Solidago nemoralis native?
- Old-field Goldenrod is native to most of the eastern and central United States, from Maine south to Florida and west to North Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas.
- What growing conditions does Old-field Goldenrod prefer?
- This hardy perennial thrives in full sun to partial sun and tolerates drought conditions well, making it suitable for dry soils and low-maintenance landscapes.
- Is Old-field Goldenrod toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Old-field Goldenrod as toxic to livestock.
- Is Old-field Goldenrod HOA-friendly?
- Old-field 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 Old-field Goldenrod? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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