Skip to main content

Silverrod

Solidago bicolor

Last reviewed: June 2026

Solidago bicolor (Silverrod) is a native wildflower found across eastern North America that blooms white from July to September. This forb attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles while tolerating various light and moisture conditions.

Silverrod (Solidago bicolor)
Photo: (c) Michael J. Papay, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Michael J. Papay

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

12"–36" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, AR, CT, DE and 19 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies, beetles

Silverrod is an unusual goldenrod with distinctive white flower clusters that bloom from summer into early fall. This compact native perennial stays well-behaved in the garden, forming neat clumps that work well in both formal and naturalistic plantings. It thrives in partial sun with average moisture and requires minimal care once established.

Growing Silverrod

Grow Silverrod in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 6 to 18 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.

In an HOA neighborhood

Silverrod is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.

  • Dies back completely in winter like other perennials

Wildlife value

The white flower clusters attract a variety of pollinators including native bees, butterflies, and beetles during the late summer bloom period. Like other goldenrods, it provides important late-season nectar when many other flowers have finished blooming.

Common questions

When does Solidago bicolor bloom?
Silverrod blooms from July through September, producing distinctive white flower clusters that distinguish it from other goldenrods.
What pollinators visit Solidago bicolor?
Silverrod attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles with its nectar-rich flowers during late summer bloom period.
Where is Silverrod native?
Solidago bicolor is native to eastern North America, ranging from Maine to Georgia and west to Wisconsin, Missouri, and Arkansas.
What growing conditions does Silverrod prefer?
Silverrod tolerates full sun to partial shade and prefers medium to low moisture conditions, making it adaptable to various garden situations.
Is Silverrod HOA-friendly?
Silverrod 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 Silverrod? 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