Canada goldenrod
September 16, 2015
Solidago canadensis L. var. scabra Torr. & Gray
Life cycle
Clump-forming, rhizomatous perennial.

Canada goldenrod clump.
Leaves
Leaves initially develop from a basal rosette. Leaves are alternate, lance-shaped, tapering at both ends, stalkless, usually with toothed margins. Leaves are numerous and crowded along the stem, with soft hairs below and smooth above.

Canada goldenrod rosette (left) and leaf (right).
Stems
Erect, up to 7 feet tall with little to no branching. Dense hairs present.
Flowers and fruit
Golden-yellow flowers are found in dense, pyramid-shaped, panicle-like clusters. The seed is enclosed in a single-seeded, wind-disseminated fruit.

Canada goldenrod flowers.
Reproduction
Seeds and extensive creeping rhizomes.
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