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

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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