Riddell'S Goldenrod
Solidago riddellii
Last reviewed: June 2026
Riddell's Goldenrod is a native prairie wildflower found across the upper Midwest that produces bright yellow flower clusters from August through October. This drought-tolerant perennial attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles to prairie gardens and natural areas.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–60" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
IL, IN, MI, MN and 3 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Riddell's goldenrod is a tall native wildflower that produces bright yellow flower clusters from late summer through fall. This prairie species forms upright clumps and provides excellent late-season color when many other plants are finishing their bloom cycle.
Growing Riddell'S Goldenrod
Grow Riddell'S Goldenrod in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 24 to 60 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
Riddell'S 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 or unkempt to traditional landscaping preferences
- May spread beyond intended boundaries
- Associated with wild prairie rather than cultivated gardens
Wildlife value
This goldenrod is exceptionally valuable for pollinators, supporting over 100 species of native bees, butterflies, and beneficial beetles. It serves as a critical nectar source during fall migration periods when few other flowers are available.
Common questions
- When does Riddell's Goldenrod bloom?
- Riddell's Goldenrod blooms from August through October, providing late-season nectar when many other wildflowers have finished flowering.
- Where is Riddell's Goldenrod native?
- This goldenrod species is native to the upper Midwest, including Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin.
- What pollinators visit Riddell's Goldenrod?
- Riddell's Goldenrod attracts a variety of pollinators including native bees, butterflies, and beetles that feed on its abundant nectar and pollen.
- What growing conditions does Riddell's Goldenrod prefer?
- This prairie species thrives in full sun with medium moisture levels but can tolerate a range of water conditions from wet to dry soils once established.
- Is Riddell'S Goldenrod HOA-friendly?
- Riddell'S 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 Riddell'S 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