How much sun does Showy Goldenrod need?

Showy Goldenrod grows best in full sun conditions.

When does Showy Goldenrod bloom?

Showy Goldenrod blooms in August, September, and October.

Where is Showy Goldenrod native?

Showy Goldenrod (Solidago erecta) is native to AL, CT, DE, GA and 14 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).

What pollinators does Showy Goldenrod attract?

Showy Goldenrod draws bees, butterflies, and moths.

Is Showy Goldenrod HOA-friendly?

Showy Goldenrod is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Showy Goldenrod

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Solidago erecta

Last reviewed: August 2026

Toxicity unknown

Showy Goldenrod (Solidago erecta) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

24"–48" H × 12"–24" W

Bloom

Aug, Sep, Oct

Native to

AL, CT, DE, GA and 14 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies, moths

Before you buy

Your city may pay you to plant this

Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 445 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.

Find rebates in your area

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Piedmont Eastern Corn Belt Plains Middle Atlantic Coastal Plain Northern Piedmont Southeastern Plains Blue Ridge Ridge and Valley Eastern Temperate Forests Central Appalachians Western Allegheny Plateau Interior Plateau Atlantic Coastal Pine Barrens

Showy goldenrod produces bright yellow flower clusters from late summer through fall, creating a vibrant display when many other plants are fading. This native perennial forms clumps of upright stems with narrow leaves and requires minimal care once established. It thrives in sunny locations with poor to average soil and handles drought well.

In an HOA neighborhood

Showy Goldenrod is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.

Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.

Can look weedy when dormant in winter
May spread beyond intended boundaries
Name association with allergenic ragweed creates negative perception

Wildlife value

The abundant yellow blooms attract numerous bees, butterflies, and moths during fall migration periods. Seeds provide food for birds, and the plant serves as a host for several native butterfly caterpillars.

Common questions

How much sun does Showy Goldenrod need?: Showy Goldenrod grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Showy Goldenrod bloom?: Showy Goldenrod blooms in August, September, and October.
Where is Showy Goldenrod native?: Showy Goldenrod (Solidago erecta) is native to AL, CT, DE, GA and 14 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
What pollinators does Showy Goldenrod attract?: Showy Goldenrod draws bees, butterflies, and moths.
Is Showy Goldenrod HOA-friendly?: Showy Goldenrod is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Showy Goldenrod? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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