Seaside Goldenrod
By LYNN ARTZ and SANDY TEDDER
Seaside goldenrod (Solidago sempervirens) is a fall-blooming wildflower found in sandy soils in coastal counties. Clusters of bright yellow flowers adorn 2-8’ tall, arching stalks. Its nectar attracts many butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. It feeds the caterpillars of wavy-lined emerald moths. Seaside goldenrod is deer-resistant and highly salt-tolerant. Goldenrod does not cause hay fever. Ragweed, which blooms at the same time, is the real culprit. Goldenrod is pollinated by insects whereas ragweed depends on wind-pollination. That’s how lightweight, allergenic ragweed pollen reaches human noses. Seaside goldenrod is available commercially and is an important pollinator plant to add to your yard. Seaside goldenrod is one of 20 goldenrod species in Florida and one of two goldenrod species at Sopchoppy Depot Park.