NATIVE PLANT OF THE MONTH: Sweet Goldenrod, Solidago odora

Sweet Goldenrod, Solidago odora, is a distinctive perennial and easy to

identify by its leaves, which smell of anise when crushed. It grows to

about 3 feet tall and blooms from July through October. This goldenrod

loves the sun and moist soil. It grows in clumps and does not send out

runners. Fresh seed germinates easily, and germination improves after

cold stratification for 60 days. Smaller than the common Canadian

goldenrod, this beauty is appropriate for most yards in our ecoregion.

Beaver and rabbits eat the leaves while many birds and small

mammals eat the seeds. The blooms nectar and pollen are loved by our

native bees, butterflies, and moths.

Leaves and flowers can be used to brew an anise-flavored tea. Select

leaves free of fungi. They may be used dried or fresh. After the Boston

Tea Party, colonists drank a concoction called Liberty Tea made

from this beautiful plant. Flowers can be used as a garnish in salads. -

Louise Prejean