Blue-stemmed Goldenrod

Blue-stemmed Goldenrod
Blue-stemmed Goldenrod. Solidago caesia.
Asteraceae, the daisy, sunflower or composite family.

Description:
Plant: Forest plant with single stem, 1'-3', often arching, and covered with whitish bloom, with small clusters of yellow heads in the axils of lanceolate leaves, and a larger terminal cluster. Perennial.
Flowers: Yellow heads, about 1/4" long with 3-8 rays and several disk flowers, in small clusters (racemes) in the leaf axils, and a larger terminal cluster.
Leaves: Alternate, generally lanceolate, 2"-6", tapered at both ends, slightly toothed, or sometimes toothless, and unstalked (sessile).
Fruit: Dry, seed-like achene with silky hairs.
Blooming: August-October
Habitat: Rich woods.

Comments: This native species is one of the few goldenrods that habitually grows in shady areas. The small clusters of flowers scattered along the stem are distinctive. The common name refers to the whitish bloom on the stem, which sometimes gives a bluish appearance.

Where to find it: Widely scattered in the upper woods.