They are extremely hardy, drought tolerant, long-lived perennials. They also have few insect or disease problems and require minimal maintenance. Most goldenrods are clump forming plants with erect to somewhat arching stems of varying heights and alternately arranged leaves. Flowers are typically yellow, but there are a few scarce white forms. Individual flowers are very small but are borne in great numbers to form flower heads of various shapes and sizes.
Plants bloom over a long period in late summer and fall.
There are more than 125 species of goldenrods. Most of these are native American wildflowers. Many are well adapted to the midwest. Iowa has over a dozen native Solidago species that are relatively common, as well as a few rare ones. Most of our native species are best placed in naturalistic areas of the landscape.