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Bransford, W.D. Mrs.

Solidago odora Ait.

Anise-scented goldenrod, Anisescented goldenrod, Sweet goldenrod

Asteraceae (Aster Family)

USDA Symbol: SOOD

USDA Native Status: Native to U.S.

A smooth, tall, anise-scented plant bearing crowded, cylindrical clusters of yellow flower heads along one side of slightly arching branchesAnise-scented goldenrod is a 2-5 ft. perennial with a neat form and rich, anise scent. The yellow inflorescence is usually one-sided, with the base wider than the tip.

The crushed leaves of Sweet Goldenrod give off an anise scent that readily identifies this widespread species. A tea can be brewed from its leaves and dried flowers.

 

From the Image Gallery

Plant Characteristics

Duration: Perennial
Habit: Herb
Size Class: 3-6 ft.
Fruit Type: Capsule

Bloom Information

Bloom Color: Yellow
Bloom Time: Jul , Aug , Sep , Oct

Distribution

USA: AL , AR , CT , DE , FL , GA , KY , LA , MD , MA , MS , MO , NH , NJ , NY , NC , OH , OK , PA , RI , SC , TN , TX , VT , VA , WV , DC
Canada: NS
Native Distribution: E. TX to FL, n. to s.e. MO, c. NY & s. NH
Native Habitat: Savannas; pinelands; dry woods
USDA Native Status: L48(N)

Growing Conditions

Light Requirement: Sun
Soil Moisture: Moist
Soil pH: Acidic (pH<6.8)
Soil Description: Average to poor, sandy soils.
Conditions Comments: Solidago odora is easily kept in bounds.

Benefit

Use Other: The crushed leaves of sweet goldenrod give off a licorice scent that readily identifies this widespread species. A tea can be brewed from its leaves. (Niering)
Conspicuous Flowers: yes
Attracts: Birds

Propagation

Description: Increase by division of mature clumps or by seed.
Seed Collection: Not Available
Seed Treatment: Not Available
Commercially Avail: yes
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From the National Organizations Directory

According to the species list provided by Affiliate Organizations, this plant is on display at the following locations:

Delaware Nature Society - Hockessin, DE

Recommended Species Lists

Find native plant species by state. Each list contains commercially available species suitable for gardens and planned landscapes. Once you have selected a collection, you can browse the collection or search within it using the combination search.

View Recommended Species page

Additional resources

USDA: Find Solidago odora in USDA Plants
FNA: Find Solidago odora in the Flora of North America (if available)
Google: Search Google for Solidago odora

Metadata

Record Modified: 2007-01-01
Research By: TWC Staff

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