Photo of Giant Goldenrod (Solidago gigantea)

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Photographer & Copyright

© Becky Dill

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Public Domain

Inclusion in Plant ID / Comparison Guides

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

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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Giant Goldenrod (Solidago gigantea) vs. Early Goldenrod (Solidago juncea)

Updated February 7th, 2025

These two goldenrods are sometimes confused, as both tend to bloom earlier and have relatively smooth stems and foliage. Both occur in sun to partial shade, but they otherwise have little habitat overlap. They are usually easily distinguished by growth habit, and they have numerous other differences. S. gigantea ranges much farther west and south, is more restricted to moist sites with richer soil, tolerates flooding and poor drainage, and is more competitive against tall herbaceous vegetation. S. juncea prefers drier sites where competing vegetation is sparser, and is more demanding of good drainage.

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