Stiff Goldenrod
Solidago rigida
Last reviewed: July 2026
Solidago rigida (Stiff Goldenrod) is a drought-tolerant native wildflower blooming yellow from summer through fall across most of the United States. This hardy perennial attracts butterflies, bees, and moths to prairie and grassland gardens.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Native to
AL, AR, CO, CT and 33 more states
Pollinators
butterflies, bees, 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 411 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
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Stiff Goldenrod is a sturdy native perennial that produces bright yellow flower clusters from summer through fall. This compact wildflower maintains an upright, well-behaved growth habit and provides reliable seasonal color in sunny, dry locations.
Growing Stiff Goldenrod
Grow Stiff Goldenrod in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Stiff Goldenrod is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
Excellent pollinator plant that attracts butterflies, native bees, and moths during its extended bloom period. The seeds also provide food for birds in late fall and winter.
Common questions
- When does Stiff Goldenrod bloom?
- Stiff Goldenrod blooms from June through November, with peak flowering typically occurring in late summer and early fall.
- What pollinators visit Solidago rigida?
- Stiff Goldenrod attracts a variety of pollinators including butterflies, bees, and moths. The abundant yellow flowers provide important late-season nectar sources.
- Where is Stiff Goldenrod native?
- Stiff Goldenrod is native to most of the United States, ranging from the Great Plains eastward and extending into parts of the Mountain West and Southeast.
- What growing conditions does Solidago rigida prefer?
- Stiff Goldenrod thrives in full sun and tolerates drought conditions once established. It grows well in prairie soils and requires minimal watering.
- Is Stiff Goldenrod HOA-friendly?
- Stiff 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 Stiff Goldenrod? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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