Solidago juncea aka Plume Goldenrod

Solidago juncea, or early goldenrod, belongs to the aster family. This perennial wildflower comes from central and eastern Canada. Its range also covers the north-central and eastern United States. It grows in a temperate climate. In Missouri, it grows on prairies and rocky slopes. It also grows beside roads and in open woods. Its name refers to its early bloom among goldenrods.

The plant forms upright clumps with stiff, slender stems. Garden plants reach 2–4 feet [0.61–1.22 metres] tall. Some stay near 1.5 feet [0.46 metres]. Clumps spread 2–3 feet [0.61–0.91 metres] wide. The central stem has slight ridges and no hairs. It may be green or tinged with red. Green leaves grow in an alternate pattern along the stem. The narrow lower leaves have toothed edges and tapering bases. They reach about 0.67 feet [0.20 metres] long. Leaves grow smaller toward the top of each stem. Most leaf surfaces lack hairs, though edges may have tiny hairs.

Small yellow flower heads gather in branched panicles above the leaves. The branches bend up and out from the stems. Each head has ray florets around a central disc. Bloom starts in July and often lasts through August. Some accounts report flowers lasting into October. Removing faded flower clusters can help extend the display. Bees, butterflies, and other insects visit the flowers. Insects carry the sticky pollen rather than wind. Ragweed pollen, not goldenrod pollen, causes the hay fever often blamed on these flowers. Seeds provide food for songbirds in fall. The plant also hosts larvae of the wavy-lined emerald moth.

Grow early goldenrod in full sun and well-drained soil. It also accepts some shade, according to NC State. Average soils suit it, including loam and clay-rich ground. It tolerates poor soil and dry conditions. Dry to moderately moist soil fits its growing needs. Sources list it as hardy in USDA zones 3–8. Once established, it needs little care and withstands drought. Its flowers suit cutting and add color to perennial borders. Meadows, native gardens, and butterfly gardens also suit this plant.

Clumps can spread enough to crowd a small garden space. Divide them every two or three years to limit growth. Division also provides a way to raise more plants. Serious pest and disease issues are uncommon. Leaf rust can occur, and deer resistance is moderate. NC State rates its fire risk as medium. The supplied sources give no human food uses or toxicity findings.