Wrinkleleaf Goldenrod (Solidago rugosa)

Wrinkleleaf goldenrod (Solidago rugosa), like other goldenrods, has a long panicle of yellow ray and disk florets characteristic of the aster family, Asteraceae. But there are a few key features that distinguish wrinkleleaf goldenrod from the other goldenrods. The central stem, which can reach 1-5 feet, is covered in tiny hairs, or pubescence. The upper surface of the foliage has a wrinkled appearance due to the indentations of the leaf veins. Hence the common name wrinkleleaf goldenrod. The 4-inch long and 1.5-inch wide leaves alternate along the stem. The leaves have toothed edges, and the foliage is often dull and slightly hairy.

You can see wrinkleleaf goldenrod in bloom from midsummer into early autumn with a bloom period lasting between 1-2 months. The blooms attract an array of insects including bees, wasps, flies, butterflies, skippers, and beetles. The caterpillars of many moth species feed on goldenrod as do many insects. Insectivorous birds feed on the insects which feed on wrinkeleaf goldenrod. This goldenrod grows best in full sun, moist well-drained, slightly acidic spots and makes a great addition to a naturalized perennial garden.