This is one of the most elegant of all the native goldenrod species. It is a fall flowering species and is at peak flower right now in the woodlands. It is only one of several native goldenrods that has flowers that appear in the axils of the leaves, zig zag goldenrod is the other and it has larger leaves with petioles (stems) whereas the blue-stemmed leaves are sessile. They are both woodland species but flower much more profusely in areas where they get lots of morning sunlight although it can tolerate almost full sunlight. This is a species that can tolerate some clay in the soil and can even be found in rocky soils although like most woodland species, loam soil is the best. This is not an aggressive or weedy species at all and the sometimes greenish-blue leaves can be up to 5" long and 1" wide. Remember, goldenrods have heavy pollen and this species is no exception in that it is pollinated primarily by bees, and it is not wind pollenated so it is not the cause of your allergies or hay fever. If you really want an outstanding show of color, plant this in groups or clusters of 5 or so plants and then use blue woodland aster around it and the show of light blue and yellow is incredible. This plant is not tolerant of deer browsing although it is certainly not a favored food. Finally, this plant makes an excellent cut or dried flower.
It is so interesting that you have chosen this wildflower to tell us about right now. This endearing Goldenrod grows in my woods, and as always been a favorite, but I've never been sure what kind it is. I always assumed it was Zig-Zag Goldenrod, but now I know that it probably is Blue-Stem. I even took a few photos last week, planning to send them to you so you could identify it for me. With all the information you've given, however, I may be able to do this myself. Thank you for that and for the idea of planting it with Blue Asters - can't wait.
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