Photo of Tall Goldenrod (Solidago altissima)

Tall goldenrod (Solidago altissima) is often a dominant component of the ecosystems where it occurs. It thus contributes both a high amount of total biomass and structure, to the ecosystem. Without large goldenrods, many ecosystems would be very different and much poorer as a result.

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Inclusion in Plant ID / Comparison Guides

This photo is featured in 4 plant ID/comparison guides:

collage of Tall Goldenrod and Sweet Goldenrod

Tall Goldenrod (Solidago altissima) vs. Sweet Goldenrod (Solidago odora)

Updated July 20th, 2025

These two goldenrods are sometimes confused; both tend to grow in dry habitats. They are usually easy to tell apart by close examination of the leaves, and they have numerous other differences. S. altissima ranges farther north and much farther west, and prefers richer, finer-textured soils, ranges onto higher-pH soils, and tolerates much greater levels of disturbance. S. odora is more restricted to the southeast and is strictly limited to acidic, nutrient-poor soils, and is more shade-tolerant, but less tolerant of disturbance.

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collage of Tall Goldenrod and Canada Goldenrod

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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collage of Tall Goldenrod and Giant Goldenrod

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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The other guide is not yet completed and published.