grass-leaved goldenrod Interesting Notes

The small flowers attract many kinds of insects, including long-tongued bees, short-tongued bees, wasps, flies, butterflies, moths, and beetles. Various wasps and a few beetle species, such as Chauliognathus pennsylvanicus (Goldenrod Soldier Beetle) and Epicauta pensylvanica (Black Blister Beetle), seem to be especially attracted to the flowers. The caterpillars of several species of moths eat various parts of this and other goldenrods. The seeds are eaten by the Eastern Goldfinch and Swamp Sparrow to a limited extent, while the foliage is occasionally consumed in limited amounts by the Greater Prairie Chicken, Cottontail Rabbit, and White-Tailed Deer. - Prairie Wildflowers of Illinois

Solidago graminifolia Growing and Maintenance Tips

Prefers moist, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. May spread somewhat aggressively in ideal moist, sunny conditions. Tolerant of poor, dry soils. Somewhat drought tolerant once established. Propagate by seed or division. Best used in a meadow, butterfly or wild garden.

Good Substitutions

Solidago rugosa 'Fireworks'

Solidago odora

Solidago sphacelata 'Golden Fleece'