Solidago nemoralis (Fr: verge d'or des bois | En: Grey Goldenrod, Oldfield goldenrod)

Grey Goldenrod

Solidago nemoralis
Alternative names: Oldfield Goldenrod, Dwarf Goldenrod
French: Verge d’or des bois

Grey Goldenrod is a small and well-behaved native goldenrod that thrives in dry, poor soils and brings golden colour to the garden well into fall. It’s easy to identify by its distinctively curved flower clusters (panicles) and its fine grey-green foliage, which gives the plant its name.

This goldenrod is clump-forming rather than spreading, making it ideal for garden borders, walkways, or sunny rock gardens where space is limited. It grows low and tidy, typically staying under 75 cm tall.

Solidago nemoralis is also one of the last goldenrods to flower, blooming from September into November, often even after the first frost. Its late-season blooms provide vital nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators preparing for winter. On a sunny October day, its flowers can be buzzing with life.

For extended blooming through the seasons, consider pairing with Solidago juncea, which flowers earlier in summer.

Height: 30–75 cm
Bloom time: September to November
Light: Full sun
Moisture: Dry to moderate
Soil: Prefers sandy, rocky, or well-drained soils
Habitat: Old fields, dry meadows, sand plains, rock outcrops
Ecological benefits: Critical late-season nectar source for pollinators
Edible: Not edible