During the past few decades, goldenrod has become recognized as being much more than a weed. Its ascendancy to the list of valuable wildlife plants is much deserved. Gardeners and wildlife enthusiasts alike are becoming increasingly aware that the goldenrod is a source of nectar and/or pollen for a variety of native pollinators including native bees, moths, and butterflies. In addition, the insects found on goldenrod are an important source of food for songbirds and others. However, the ubiquitous plant’s value to wildlife well beyond its blooming season remains largely unappreciated.
In truth, if you allow goldenrod plants to remain standing throughout the winter, they will provide cover for songbirds, rabbits, and small mammals. In addition, goldenrod seeds are eaten by a number of birds and small mammals. The American goldfinch is particularly fond of goldenrod seeds. Among the other birds that dine on the tiny seeds are swamp sparrows, eastern towhees, pine siskins, and dark-eyed juncos. If you live in the mountains, don’t be surprised to see ruffed grouse eating goldenrod seeds on cold winter day.
Good information, Terry!
Great information, but where do you buy it?
Leah,
It can be purchased online from nurseries that deal in native plants. Two Georgia nurseries that specialize in native plants are: Vincent Gardens – Douglas Georgia, and Asclepias and More in Grovetown. Check out their sites about mail order and availability of plants.
Terry
So happy to have found your site. We are fairly new to Georgia and trying to learn as much as we can about our feathery friends here. We see a much greater variety of backyard birds in our more rural home here than we did living in the city of New Orleans! We’ve avid year-round feeders and watching our birds is delightful!
Thank you very much. If you have a suggestion for a blog. Let me know. If you have that question I am sure others do also.
Terry
Thanks! Golden rod seed heads are looking pretty ragged after days of rain in my neck of the woods.
Terry