Pronounced (approximate): sol-ih-DAY-go nem-or-AL-iss
Yellow flowering branches often lean to one side. Fine hairs give the stems and leaves a gray-green appearance.
Gray Goldenrod (Solidago nemoralis): arching yellow flower plume. Tap the photo to open the gallery.
Family Asteraceae
Life cycle Perennial wildflower
Blooms Late summer–fall
Height ½–3 feet
Habitat Dry sandy or rocky prairies, fields, and open ground
Other common names
Gray Goldenrod
Bloom timing and height vary by region. Native status refers to North America; see the range notes below.
Explore reported observations. Sightings are not a complete range map.
Dry sandy or rocky prairies, fields, and open ground. Flowering season: late summer–fall.
A relatively short goldenrod of dry ground. Look at the hairy stem and leaf surfaces as well as the shape of the flower cluster.
Yellow flowering branches often lean to one side.
Fine hairs give the stems and leaves a gray-green appearance. Leaves become much smaller toward the top of the stem.
Look in dry sandy or rocky prairies, fields, and open ground. Include a whole-plant view alongside closeups when studying this species.
8 field photographs. Select a photograph to enlarge it.
Native to North America; distribution varies by region.
Documented in these U.S. states
AL, AR, CT, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MS, MO, NE, NH, NJ, NY, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VT, WV, WI
State list includes reported native and introduced occurrence; it does not mean the plant is native in every listed state.
Observation maps show submitted records, not every place the plant occurs. Follow local access rules when visiting a site.
Practice recognizing Gray Goldenrod in the quiz, or compare it with other plants in the guide.
Field photographs: Where’s Wildlife.