Family: Asteraceae
Author: L.
Bibliography: Mant. Pl.: 114 (1767)
Year: 1767
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Solidago
Vegetable: False
Observations: E. Canada to NC. & E. U.S.A.
Description
Silverrod, scientifically known as Solidago bicolor, is a captivating species of flowering plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. First documented by the renowned botanist Carl Linnaeus in 1767, this plant is distinguished by its unique characteristics that set it apart from many of its relatives.
Primarily found in Eastern Canada extending down through North Carolina and the Eastern United States, Silverrod thrives in a variety of habitats. Its adaptability allows it to flourish in open woods, meadows, and along forest edges, where it typically garners attention with its striking presence.
The plant is renowned for its creamy white to pale yellow flower clusters, which bloom from late summer through fall. These flowers, which form in slender, wand-like clusters, are a defining feature of Silverrod and contribute to its common name. Unlike the more familiar goldenrods, which are known for their vibrant yellow blooms, Silverrod’s paler coloration makes it a unique and easily identifiable species within the Solidago genus.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Silverrod plays a vital role in the ecosystem. It serves as an important source of nectar for various pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and other insects, thereby supporting biodiversity and promoting the health of natural habitats.
Silverrod’s foliage consists of simple, alternately arranged leaves that are lance-shaped and slightly toothed. These leaves contribute to the plant’s overall elegant and graceful appearance, providing a visually pleasing contrast to its delicate flowers.
Overall, Solidago bicolor is a noteworthy species that not only adds unique beauty to natural landscapes but also plays a significant role in supporting ecological health. Its distinctive flower color, widespread presence across eastern regions of North America, and ecological significance make it a valuable plant species in both scientific study and horticultural appreciation.
Common Names
Eng: silverrod, white goldenrod, bicoloured goldenrod
Fra: verge d’or bicolor, verge d’or bicolore, solidage bicolore
En: Silverrod, White goldenrod, Bicoloured goldenrod
Fr: Verge d’or bicolor, Verge d’or bicolore, Solidage bicolore
Synonyms
- Solidago alba (Mill.)
- Solidago pubens (M.A.Curtis ex Torr. & A.Gray)
- Aster pubens ((M.A.Curtis ex Torr. & A.Gray) Kuntze)
- Solidago viminea (Bosc ex DC.)
- Solidago bicolor f. ramosior (Farw.)
- Solidago curtisii var. pubens ((M.A.Curtis ex Torr. & A.Gray) A.Gray)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Arkansas (native)
- Connecticut (native)
- Delaware (native)
- Georgia (native)
- Illinois (native)
- Indiana (native)
- Kentucky (native)
- Maine (native)
- Maryland (native)
- Masachusettes (native)
- Michigan (native)
- Mississippi (native)
- Missouri (native)
- New Brunswick (native)
- New Hampshire (native)
- New Jersey (native)
- New York (native)
- North Carolina (native)
- Nova Scotia (native)
- Ohio (native)
- Ontario (native)
- Pennsylvania (native)
- Prince Edward I. (native)
- Québec (native)
- Rhode I. (native)
- Wisconsin (native)
Additional Images
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Flower
Taken Feb 26, 2021 by Shehadi Ramiz (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 12, 2022 by bryan brunet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 22, 2022 by Erin Isaac (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 10, 2021 by wayne eddy (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 2, 2020 by Andrew Andrew Dewey (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Oct 2, 2014 by EOL − Charlie Hohn (cc-by-nc)
Taken Sep 29, 2014 by EOL − Charlie Hohn (cc-by-nc)
Taken Sep 6, 2014 by EOL − Charlie Hohn (cc-by-nc)
Taken Sep 18, 2014 by EOL − Sarah Carline (cc-by-nc)
Taken Sep 18, 2014 by EOL − Sarah Carline (cc-by-nc)
Leaf
Taken Sep 9, 2020 by Sammy Sammy (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 30, 2019 by Heath post (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 5, 2021 by Amorim Ana Paula (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 20, 2012 by EOL − Kelly O’Donnell (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Nov 20, 2012 by EOL − Kelly O’Donnell (cc-by-nc-sa)
Fruit
Taken Aug 27, 2013 by EOL − Kyle Jones (cc-by-nc)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:328803-2)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5388960)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Solidago bicolor L.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb