Blue-stemmed Goldenrod is well behaved.

The blue-stemmed goldenrod is sometimes referred to as Wreath Goldenrod. It is a well-behaved woodland species. It forms pretty, loose clumps with arching stems and long, thin leaves. Tiny clusters of bright yellow flowers form in the leaf axils for half the stem’s length. Stem color in mature plants has a dark, bluish tone.

The blue-stemmed goldenrod attracts many pollinators such as bees and butterflies. White-tailed deer may browse the foliage, but they are generally unpalatable to deer or rabbits.

It is commonly mistaken for a plant that causes hayfever, but this is not the case. Hayfever is caused by wind-borne pollen, but the pollen from the blue-stemmed goldenrod is actually transported from bloom to bloom by bees, butterflies and other pollinators.

Where to Plant

It can be found in nature in open deciduous woods. It is popular in native plant gardens, open woodland gardens, borders, wild gardens, cottage gardens, meadows, and butterfly gardens.

The blue-stemmed goldenrod is usually found in upland woods where deciduous trees dominate. It bears bright yellow flowers in the fall, which are on long, slender stems that turn bluish or purplish with age. It is a perennial that grows 1-3 feet and tolerates shade and various soils.

Caring for Blue-stemmed Goldenrod

Plants are tough. Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade, and does not spread aggressively as do some of the other goldenrod species and hybrids.

Companion plant suggestions include Try pairing Solidago caesia with Aster cordifolius, Chasmanthium latifolium, Chrysogonum virginianum, Heliopsis helianthoides or Amsonia hubrichtii.

Pruning Verge d’or bleuâtre

Deadhead to prevent self-seeding. Divide in spring or fall.

It may be affected by powdery mildew, rust, or fungal spots.

Other Goldenrods

Discover the differences among many these goldenrods.

• Grass Leaved Goldenrod
• Early Goldenrod
• Stiff Goldenrod
• Squarrose Goldenrod
• Rough-stemmed Goldenrod
• Zigzag Goldenrod
• Ohio Goldenrod

They each have their own uniqueness.