Bring a soft golden glow to your garden’s shady corners with Bluestem Goldenrod (Solidago caesia)—a clump-forming native perennial also known as Wreath Goldenrod for the way its delicate, yellow flowers appear in small “wreaths” around its distinctive purplish-blue arching stems. Blooming from late summer into fall, this species provides critical late-season nectar for native bees, butterflies, and other pollinators when few other flowers are in bloom.
Unlike many goldenrods that spread aggressively, Bluestem Goldenrod grows in tidy clumps, making it an excellent choice for woodland edges, shaded borders, and native plant gardens. Its slender, upright stems and bright yellow blooms add texture and movement, while its tolerance for dry to average soils and light shade makes it a low-maintenance standout.
Why You’ll Love Bluestem Goldenrod:
- Late-Season Blooms: Provides vital nectar when pollinators need it most
- Pollinator Magnet: Attracts butterflies, bees, and beneficial insects
- Shade Tolerant: Thrives in part-shade and light woodland settings
- Striking Stems: Purplish-blue stems add color and contrast
- Non-Aggressive: Clump-forming and garden-friendly
- Low Maintenance: Drought-tolerant once established
- Pollinator-Safe: Grown non-GMO and free of harmful neonicotinoids, promoting a healthy ecosystem for pollinators and wildlife.
Available in sets of three, six, or 12 plants to create a pollinator-friendly habitat in your garden.
Planting Tips:
- Location: Prefers light to part shade, but tolerates full sun with adequate moisture. Grows well in average, well-drained soil; adaptable to dry woodland conditions
- Watering: Water regularly during the first season; drought-tolerant once established
- Maintenance: Minimal care required. There's no need to deadhead the flowers, as allowing them to go to seed provides a valuable food source for birds. Leaving the stems standing in the fall offers overwintering sites for beneficial insects. If desired, cut back the stems in late spring after pollinators have emerged.
For more information on planting, view our How to Plant Your Native Plants guide and other planting tips in the Garden for Wildlife Learning Center.
Add late-season charm and lasting ecological value to your garden with Bluestem Goldenrod—a graceful, clump-forming perennial that supports pollinators, brightens shaded borders, and brings structure and color from summer through fall.