Western-goldenrod
Solidago californica
Last reviewed: August 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
18"–48" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
CA, OR
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, syrphid flies
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 431 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
Find rebates in your areaUpright perennial with narrow hairy leaves and dense plume-like clusters of small golden-yellow flowers held above the foliage in late summer and fall, found on dry slopes and open woodland edges.
Wildlife value
One of the most important late-season nectar sources for native bees, butterflies, and migrating monarchs.
Common questions
- How much sun does Western-goldenrod need?
- Western-goldenrod grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Western-goldenrod bloom?
- Western-goldenrod blooms in August, September, and October.
- Where is Western-goldenrod native?
- Western-goldenrod (Solidago californica) is native to CA, OR, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
- What pollinators does Western-goldenrod attract?
- Western-goldenrod draws bees, butterflies, and syrphid flies.
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 Western-goldenrod? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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