Elm-leaf goldenrod (Solidago ulmifolia, Sp. Pl., ed. 4, 3: 2060 (1803))

Family: Asteraceae

Author: Muhl. ex Willd.

Bibliography: Sp. Pl., ed. 4, 3: 2060 (1803)

Year: 1803

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Solidago

Vegetable: False

Observations: E. Canada to U.S.A.

Description

Elm-leaf goldenrod, known scientifically as Solidago ulmifolia, is a captivating perennial plant native to the temperate regions of Eastern Canada and the United States. Classified under the Asteraceae family, this species is distinguished by its botanical characteristics and ecological significance.

The Elm-leaf goldenrod is noteworthy for its slender, erect stems that gracefully support lance-shaped leaves resembling those of the elm tree, hence its common name. These leaves are finely serrated, contributing to the plant’s delicate and appealing appearance. During the blooming season, this goldenrod produces a array of small, bright yellow flowers arranged in graceful, arching clusters. These vibrant inflorescences typically appear from late summer to early fall, adding a splash of color to meadows, woodlands, and other natural habitats.

Ecologically, Solidago ulmifolia plays a crucial role in supporting a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and other insects. The flowers provide essential nectar and pollen sources, making this plant a valuable component of the ecosystem. Beyond its ecological benefits, the Elm-leaf goldenrod has garnered attention for its potential medicinal properties, echoing the broader historical use of goldenrods in traditional medicine.

First described in the fourth edition of Species Plantarum in 1803 by the botanist Muhl. ex Willd., this plant has since been a subject of interest both in horticulture and natural sciences. Gardeners and landscapers often appreciate its aesthetic appeal and its ability to attract pollinators, thus fostering biodiversity in cultivated spaces.

In summary, the Elm-leaf goldenrod is not just a beautiful addition to natural landscapes but also an important ecological player. Its unique morphology and beneficial attributes make it a noteworthy species within the diverse and extensive Asteraceae family.

Common Names

Eng: elm-leaf goldenrod, elmleaf goldenrod, elm-leaved goldenrod
Fra: verge d’or à feuilles d’orme
En: Elm-leaf goldenrod, Elmleaf goldenrod, Elm-leaved goldenrod
Fr: Verge d’or à feuilles d’orme

Synonyms

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Arkansas (native)
• Connecticut (native)
• Delaware (native)
• Florida (native)
• Georgia (native)
• Illinois (native)
• Indiana (native)
• Iowa (native)
• Kansas (native)
• Kentucky (native)
• Louisiana (native)
• Maine (native)
• Maryland (native)
• Masachusettes (native)
• Michigan (native)
• Minnesota (native)
• Mississippi (native)
• Missouri (native)
• Nebraska (native)
• New Hampshire (native)
• New Jersey (native)
• New York (native)
• Nova Scotia (native)
• Ohio (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Ontario (native)
• Pennsylvania (native)
• South Carolina (native)
• Tennessee (native)
• Texas (native)
• Virginia (native)
• West Virginia (native)
• Wisconsin (native)
• Myanmar (introduced)

Additional Images

Habit

Taken Aug 3, 2015 by EOL − Milo Pyne (cc-by-nc)

Taken Sep 17, 2015 by EOL − Aarongunnar (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 20, 2014 by EOL − Aarongunnar (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − John Hilty (cc-by-nc)

Taken Sep 5, 2021 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Sep 14, 2019 by monica (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 5, 2022 by Brian Harris (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 5, 2021 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 4, 2021 by Hillary Weis (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 27, 2021 by john holton (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Aug 22, 2020 by Anthony Higgerson (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 27, 2022 by barbara lundberg (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 21, 2020 by sheleen sheleen (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 5, 2021 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 23, 2019 by Shelly Peterson Raza (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − John Hilty (cc-by-nc)

Fruit

Taken Nov 9, 2013 by EOL − Daniel Carter (cc-by-nc)

Other

Taken May 29, 2008 by EOL − Chicago Botanic Garden 2008 (cc-by-nc-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5388977)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:249924-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Solidago ulmifolia Muhl. ex Willd.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth