Photo of Tall Goldenrod (Solidago altissima)

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© Andrew Sebastian

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CC BY 4.0

Inclusion in Plant ID / Comparison Guides

This photo is featured in 2 plant ID/comparison guides:

Tall Goldenrod (Solidago altissima) vs. Canada Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis)

Updated February 15th, 2025

These two goldenrods are challenging to tell apart where their ranges overlap. Both are tall, rhizomatous, grow in sunny habitats, and have triple-nerved leaves and large inflorescences. They can be distinguished by degree of serration on upper leaves, and by involucre and pappus length. Ball galls on the stem identify some plants as S. altissima. There are average differences in inflorescence shape, bloom time, and pubescence on leaves and stems. S. altissima ranges much farther south and west, and tolerates drier conditions. S. canadensis ranges farther north, prefers moister conditions, and is slightly more shade-tolerant. Inconsistent taxonomic treatments complicates ID.

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Tall Goldenrod (Solidago altissima) vs. Giant Goldenrod (Solidago gigantea)

Updated February 8th, 2025

These two tall, thicket-forming goldenrods have a large range overlap and are easily confused. Both have triple-veined leaves and similar inflorescences. They are usually easily told apart by texture of the stems and leaves, and they have many other differences. Although their habitats overlap slightly, Solidago gigantea ranges farther north, is more restricted to richer, moister habitats, and is more tolerant of shade and poor drainage. Solidago altissima is more of a generalist, ranges farther south and into drier habitats, but requiring better drainage.

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