Goldenrod

The candelabras of brilliant yellow flowers of goldenrod are attractive sources of nectar for bees, flies, wasps, and butterflies in late September when few other plants are blooming. Their tall spires hold well as cut flowers and are particularly spectacular in huge arrangements, pairing beautifully with michaelmas daisies that bloom at the same time. The young leaves and seeds are also edible, traditionally consumed by native tribes of North America, and were used medicinally as a dermatological aid for sores, infections, and burns, and for urinary, respiratory, and digestive ailments. Goldenrod also is a well-known natural dye plant that yields a clear primrose yellow.