Seasonal changes in south Florida can be subtle in comparison to other parts of the country. The prolific clusters of flower buds that begin to appear on seaside goldenrod (Solidago sempervirens) in late summer signals that fall is approaching.

The buds open to reveal a showy display of bright yellow flowers atop flowering stalks that can reach up to 8 feet tall. Seaside goldenrod grows best in dry, sunny conditions and acts as a nectar source for butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. Its high salt and drought tolerance makes seaside goldenrod a great no-fuss native wildflower for coastal landscapes.

Fun fact: 

In an effort to discover the best homegrown alternative source for rubber, Thomas Edison experimented with over 17, 000 plants at his estate in Fort Myers. His experiment concluded that goldenrod (Solidago sp.) contained the most desirable amount of latex to create synthetic rubber.

Unfortunately, the project dissolved after his death in 1931. A domestic source of rubber was eventually developed during World War II. 

Visit our Native Landscapes & Garden Center Tuesday – Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to learn more about planting native!