Solidago odora - anise-scented goldenrod

Height: 2’ to 4’
Spread: 1’ to 2’
Light Needs: full sun to part shade
Water: average - adaptable
Flower color: yellow
Bloom time: August to September

Long, plume-like clusters of yellow flowers appear in late summer - earlier than many goldenrods. Typically, leaves smell like anise when bruised or crushed and have been used in teas. Because it grows in a tight clump and has some drought tolerance, this goldenrod is one of the best of the genus for small and formal gardens. It can spread by seeds and is suitable for naturalizing, too. The flowers attract a wide variety of bees, butterflies and other insect pollinators. Experiences and references indicate that it is not a favorite food of deer.

It is worth noting that goldenrods do not cause hay fever. The lightweight, air-borne pollen grains of plants like ragweed cause hay fever. Goldenrod pollen is comparative heavy and sticky. It is moved from flower to flower by insects.