Solidago caesia aka Axillary Goldenrod

Solidago caesia is a perennial in the aster family. Gardeners call it blue-stemmed goldenrod or wreath goldenrod. Its native range spans eastern Canada and central and eastern America. It grows in woods and on rocky bluff sites. In Missouri, it occurs in the southern Ozarks. This woodland plant forms clumps rather than spreading with force.

Garden plants reach 1.5–3 feet [0.46–0.91 metres] tall. Their spread reaches about 3 feet [0.91 metres]. North Carolina State lists a broader height range. That range runs from 1–4 feet [0.30–1.22 metres]. The plant has an upright form with slender, arching stems. These smooth stems range from greenish purple to blue. A pale wax coating covers them and rubs off. The green leaves are narrow and shaped like lances. They have toothed edges and sharp tips at both ends. They attach without stalks and have no hairs. The leaves fall at the end of the season.

Small yellow flower heads grow in clusters along the stems. They sit where each leaf joins the stem. The clusters at the stem tips are the largest. Each head has about three to five ray flowers. Bloom runs from August into September or October. Chicago Botanic Garden also lists flowering in July. Fruit and seeds appear from September through November. Bees and butterflies visit the flowers, along with other pollinators. Songbirds eat the seeds in fall. The plant also hosts larvae of the wavy-lined emerald moth.

Partial shade suits this goldenrod, though it also accepts full sun. Some direct sun helps it grow well. It grows in average soil with good drainage. It accepts poor soil and sites that become dry. Clay soil is also within its tolerance. Dry to moderately moist soil meets its water needs. It tolerates drought and needs little routine care. Sources place it in USDA hardiness zones 4–8.

Use this species in woodland borders, meadows, or native gardens. It also fits cottage gardens and beds for butterflies. Its clumping habit makes it less aggressive than some goldenrods. Deer resistance is moderate, rather than complete. Serious pest and disease trouble is not a usual concern. Rust may occur from time to time. North Carolina State assigns the plant a medium fire risk.