Ontario Native
Upland White Goldenrod
Oligoneuron album (formerlh called Solidago ptarmicoides)
Flower colour
White daisy-like flowers with creamy or pale yellow centres
Bloom time
Mid summer through early fall
Height
12-24"
Light
Full sun but can tolerate light shade
Moisture
Average to dry conditions
Native to Ontario
Yes
Ecological benefit
Keystone species - It is a critical larval host plant, supporting the caterpillars of over 100 species of moths and butterflies. Provides late season nectar for Monarch butterflies and pollinators. Nearly 40 species of specialist bees that rely exclusively on their specific pollen to provision their nests for the next generation. The deep, fibrous root system is exceptionally effective at preventing soil erosion and improving soil structure in rocky or sandy
Notes
It naturally occurs in specialized environments common to Eastern Ontario, such as alvars (rare limestone plain ecosystems), rocky shorelines, and dry prairies. After the flowers fade, the seed heads persist through the winter, providing important forage for songbirds, especially American Goldfinches.