Elm-Leaved Goldenrod

Notes:

Elm-leaved goldenrod is a rhizomatous perennial that is native to dry woods in Eastern North America. It grows 1-3' (sometimes to 4') tall on generally erect stems that often arch at the top. Stems are clad with coarsely-serrate, ovate to lanceolate, green leaves (to 5" long) that are glabrous above and slightly pubescent beneath. Leaves purportedly resemble leaves of the elm tree as commemorated by this plant's common name (elm-leaved goldenrod) and specific epithet (Ulmus is the elm genus and folia means leaf). The central stem of this plant typically terminates with a branching panicle of yellow-flowered racemes. Additional smaller racemes may develop in the upper leaf axils. Flowers bloom late summer to early fall (July--October). Flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies. From Latin, the genus name means "to heal" in reference to certain prior medicinal uses of the plant.