Goldenrod has a reputation. Its golden blooms appear at the same time other plants let loose their pollen storm, including ragweed.

But goldenrod doesn’t play that way. It’s innocent! It’s not a high-allergen plant. It’s not ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia), a completely different plant. In fact, goldenrod pollen is designed to stay not blow around willy-nilly. Here’s a helpful article to help you differentiate between ragweed and goldenrod.

Solidago, more commonly known as goldenrod, is a genus of over 100 species of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, A.K.A., the sunflower family. It’s a herbaceous perennial found in meadows and prairies.

This year I added Canada goldenrod (Solidago canadensis L.), also known as tall goldenrod, to my seed-starting adventures.

Fun fact: Solidago canadensis L. is native to most of the United States according to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center including the lower 48 plus Alaska.

I planted fireworks goldenrod a few years ago. It’s not a conquer-the-world plant in my shady, woody yard. It’s finally spreading out a bit. I was attracted to goldenrod because it naturally grows in part-shade.

Goldenrod is a symbol of good fortune and wealth in many cultures. Plant some luck!