Prairie Goldenrod
Solidago missouriensis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Prairie Goldenrod (Solidago missouriensis) is a native wildflower blooming July through September across the Great Plains and western United States. This drought-tolerant perennial produces bright yellow flower clusters that attract bees, butterflies, and beetles.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Prairie Goldenrod as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AR, AZ, CO, ID and 21 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Prairie goldenrod is a compact native perennial that produces bright yellow flower clusters from summer into early fall. It grows in a neat, upright form and is extremely drought tolerant once established, making it a low-maintenance choice for sunny areas.
Growing Prairie Goldenrod
Grow Prairie 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
Prairie Goldenrod is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- May look sparse when dormant in winter
Wildlife value
This goldenrod is a pollinator powerhouse, attracting bees, butterflies, and beneficial beetles during its long bloom period. It's particularly valuable for late-season pollinators when many other flowers have finished blooming.
Common questions
- When does Prairie Goldenrod bloom?
- Prairie Goldenrod blooms from July through September, producing clusters of small yellow flowers that provide late-season nectar for pollinators.
- Where is Prairie Goldenrod native?
- This species is native to 25 states across the Great Plains, Mountain West, and parts of the Midwest, from Montana south to Texas and from Illinois west to Washington and Nevada.
- What pollinators visit Prairie Goldenrod?
- Prairie Goldenrod attracts a variety of pollinators including native bees, butterflies, and beetles. The abundant small flowers provide important late-season nectar when many other plants have finished blooming.
- How much water does Prairie Goldenrod need?
- This drought-tolerant native requires low to moderate water once established. It thrives in dry prairies and can handle extended periods without supplemental irrigation.
- Is Prairie Goldenrod toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Prairie Goldenrod as toxic to livestock.
- Is Prairie Goldenrod HOA-friendly?
- Prairie Goldenrod is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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 Prairie 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